Introduction to Lean Principles and Practices

Course Outline

Lean thinking is all about adding value and removing waste. Although they were developed in the manufacturing sector, Lean principles are equally applicable to the service sector, both private and public. This course helps you understand what Lean is and what eight wastes are. In addition, you will learn how to select a Lean project, how to scope and prepare for a Lean event, how conduct and manage the phases of a Lean event, and how to implement follow-up activities after a Lean event, ensure accountability, and evaluate performance. This is an excellent opportunity to get the kick start you need on your Lean journey.

This course includes a multiple choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.

Learning Objective

At the conclusion of this course, the student will be able to understand

• What is Lean;
• How Lean works;
• The eight types of waste; and
• The benefits of using Lean.

Course Content

You need to study the following publications:

CSU - Introduction to Lean Principles (PDF, 2 pages, 0.2 MB)
MIT - Fundamentals of Lean (PDF, 23 pages, 3.5 MB)
EPA - Lean Starter Kit (PDF, 120 pages, 1.5 MB)

Please click on the above underlined hypertext to view, download or print the documents for your study.

Course Summary

Lean is a business model and collection of methods that help eliminate waste while delivering quality products on time and at least cost. This course is designed to help an organization plan and implement successful Lean events. It provides resources on Lean methods, Lean training, Lean event follow-up and implementation tracking, and building a Lean enterprise.

Related Links

For additional information related to this subject, please visit the following websites or web pages:

Lean Enterprise Institute
EPA - Lean Government

Quiz

Once you finish studying the above course content you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.

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DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.

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