To provide students with a strategic overview of lean thinking, and a critical review of the theory & practice of lean thinking, lean enterprise, lean production and lean operations. To develop the student’s understanding of lean manufacture and its impact on manufacturing efficiency

On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:
1 Reflect on the significance of lean theory and the application of key lean thinking principles.
2 Have an advanced knowledge and a critical insight of the characteristics of a Lean Enterprise.
3 Critically analyse lean thinking in different engineering sectors.
4 Formulate innovative proposals based on detailed knowledge of the tools and techniques relating to the implementation of lean thinking.

• Concept of lean thinking, lean enterprise and lean production;
• Principles of lean operations;
• Relevance of waste and value;
• The process review;
• Value Stream Mapping;
• Relationships of cost, quality, delivery, innovation, flexibility;
• Demand management and level scheduling;
• Continuous improvement;
• Supporting concepts: supply chain logistics, strategic supply, supplier associations, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), Total Quality Management (TQM);
• Lean concepts in service and government;
• Lean thinking and its critics.

The module will be taught by a combination of formal lectures featuring real-world case studies.

Case Study - 50%
LO - 1-4
Pass mark - 50%
1500 words.
Coursework. A case study in which lean principles will be applied.

Exam - 50%
LO - 1-4.
Pass mark - 50%
2 hours.
Unseen Closed Book Exam.

Nature of FORMATIVE assessment supporting student learning:
Online quizzes, tutorial discussions.