Question

Which is NOT a benefit of lean manufacturing?

a) increased productivity
b) reduced lead times
c) reduced direct labor costs
d) reductions in inventory

Answer 1

Lean manufacturing is a methodology that focuses on minimizing waste within manufacturing systems while simultaneously maximizing productivity.

As its main focus is on minimizing the waste, it helps in increasing productivity (Improvements in throughput and value add per person), reducing the lead time (Business able to respond quicker, quicker set ups, fewer delays) and reduction in holding of inventory (Less work in progress and Inventory, so less capital tied up).

But direct labor costs are not benefitted from Lean manufacturing.

So the option (c) reduced direct labor costs is NOT a benefit of lean manufacturing.