ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the full definition of Lean and supply chain principles for which the two can and should be fettered together. Lean supply chain management represents a new way of thinking about supplier networks. Lean principles require cooperative supplier relationships while balancing cooperation and competition. Cooperation involves a spectrum of collaborative relationships and coordination mechanisms. Lean principles and culture can be applied to supply chain planning, the biggest objectives of which are to reduce costs and improve customer service. Kaizen is an ongoing process of looking for improvements in every area of the process. Finding ways to do things more efficiently, accurately, and effectively minimizes waste and adds value to supply chain planning processes. Sustain is the concept of keeping and maintaining established procedures for every function and step of the operation. Substitute ‘data and software’ for ‘solutions’ and can see how 5S could apply to supply chain planning.
