Which term describes producing only what is needed, when it is needed, to avoid excess inventory?

Which term describes producing only what is needed, when it is needed, to avoid excess inventory?

• A. Jidoka
• B. Poka-yoke
• C. Just-in-time
• D. Kaizen

Answer: (C)

Just-in-time production describes producing only what is needed, when it is needed, to avoid excess inventory. This pull-based approach relies on demand triggering each step of the process, which minimizes stockpiles, reduces lead times, and cuts waste tied to overproduction and storage costs. It often uses signals like Kanban to coordinate flow and requires reliable suppliers, quick setups, and stable processes to avoid disruptions. This concept is different from Jidoka, which focuses on automation that stops when a defect is detected, and from Poka-yoke, which uses mistake-proofing to prevent defects. It also differs from Kaizen, which is about ongoing improvement in all aspects of the process. The emphasis here is on timing and inventory levels to keep production tightly aligned with demand.

Just-in-time production describes producing only what is needed, when it is needed, to avoid excess inventory. This pull-based approach relies on demand triggering each step of the process, which minimizes stockpiles, reduces lead times, and cuts waste tied to overproduction and storage costs. It often uses signals like Kanban to coordinate flow and requires reliable suppliers, quick setups, and stable processes to avoid disruptions.

This concept is different from Jidoka, which focuses on automation that stops when a defect is detected, and from Poka-yoke, which uses mistake-proofing to prevent defects. It also differs from Kaizen, which is about ongoing improvement in all aspects of the process. The emphasis here is on timing and inventory levels to keep production tightly aligned with demand.