ABSTRACT
Auditing is one of the most important functions in any lean company and is critical to the change process. Many companies put new tools/processes in place and expect associates to change without requiring management to change. Depending on the level of management involved, many items should be checked on a daily or weekly basis. Because some audits will involve more than one manager, it is better for everyone to decide collectively whether mornings or afternoons are better for the reviews. The managers conducting the audit, however, should involve the lean champion and the responsible supervisor. For each type of audit, manufacturers also want to have a specific checklist so that managers are focused and utilize a standardized approach. Use the checksheets as an integral, ongoing part of the review/audit process. Once the initial audit is completed, post the filled-in audit checksheet in the area.
