Which term describes measurements used to gauge problems and guide improvement in lean systems?

Which term describes measurements used to gauge problems and guide improvement in lean systems?

• A. Lean metrics
• B. Activity-based costing
• C. Factory physics
• D. Hoshin planning

Answer: (A)

Lean metrics describe the measurements used to identify problems and steer improvements in lean systems. They focus on how value flows, how quickly work moves, and how waste is eliminated. By tracking metrics like cycle time, lead time, takt time, throughput, work-in-progress, and quality indicators such as first-pass yield or defect rate, teams can detect bottlenecks, excess inventory, and variability, set concrete improvement targets, and verify that changes actually raise performance. Other terms refer to costing strategies (allocating costs to activities), physics-based modeling of manufacturing, or strategic planning frameworks; none of these function as the primary measurement toolkit used to guide lean improvement.

Lean metrics describe the measurements used to identify problems and steer improvements in lean systems. They focus on how value flows, how quickly work moves, and how waste is eliminated. By tracking metrics like cycle time, lead time, takt time, throughput, work-in-progress, and quality indicators such as first-pass yield or defect rate, teams can detect bottlenecks, excess inventory, and variability, set concrete improvement targets, and verify that changes actually raise performance. Other terms refer to costing strategies (allocating costs to activities), physics-based modeling of manufacturing, or strategic planning frameworks; none of these function as the primary measurement toolkit used to guide lean improvement.