How expensive is it to implement Lean Manufacturing?
Since the whole emphasis of Lean is to do more with less, the transformation to Lean is not a costly one. One obvious cost is Lean training and/or consulting. However, once you start to implement Lean, your savings will quickly cover those costs. The equipment used in a Lean cell is usually much simpler than today’s over-automated manufacturing lines, saving money. Often old equipment can be re-deployed for a small cost. Sometimes new equipment must be designed and built, but this should only be done if it will result in significant savings. In short, if you are not saving significantly more than you are spending on Lean, then you are not doing Lean. Lean eliminates waste, thereby saving money. You simply cannot correctly implement Lean without saving money. However, while the implementation of Lean Manufacturing is not a costly journey in terms of money, it does require a long-term commitment in terms of time and effort. Once you start the Lean journey in your organization, it will be
