Lean logistics

Abstract

Sets out an alternative approach to designing and managing a logistics system, which is called here lean logistics. Draws on research which has sought to extend the production system logic pioneered by Toyota beyond the factory gate and into industries other than automobiles. Starts by outlining the dilemma facing managers trying to implement new business practices and then proposes an alternative way of rethinking the logic of value creation, before illustrating how this works in a complete logistics system. Central to this new logic is a detailed understanding of the waste or inefficiencies that lie in existing systems. Such an understanding is required so that radical or incremental improvements can then be made in the development of a lean logistics system. Presents a framework to do just this called value stream mapping. Illustrates the approach with an example from the distribution industry. Also raises a number of key questions for the academic community in terms of future research and applications within the broad area of lean logistics.