Seven types of waste

Oct 14, 2018

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I'm trying to read a bit more around processes and optimising output and reducing waste. I found it hard to remember the seven types of waste, so drew a diagram to make it easier.

I discovered that I found it easier to remember these by imagining a factory workfloor such a fruit packaging factory, where things can spoil so inventory stockpiling is a bigger priority. I think about the inputs, what happens during processing, and outputs - and where time could be wasted.

The original seven types of waste:

Inputs:

  • Not enough inventory (waiting)
  • Too much inventory

Processing:

  • Unnecessary movement
  • Inappropriate processing

Outputs:

  • Overproduction (outputs are stockpiled and not used)
  • Defects
  • Transportation

There is now an eigth type of waste:

  • Underutilisation of humans

Further reading