Lean Supply Chain and Logistics

Focuses on applying Lean principles to eliminate waste and improve efficiency in supply chain and logistics processes.

Course Overview:

This course introduces participants to Lean principles applied specifically to supply chain and logistics functions, aiming to eliminate waste, improve flow, and maximize value delivery to customers. Delivered by 4D – The Fourth Dimension Training and Consultancy, the program equips supply chain professionals with practical tools and methodologies such as Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen events, Just-In-Time inventory, and continuous improvement techniques. Attendees will learn to identify inefficiencies, streamline processes, reduce lead times, and enhance overall supply chain agility and responsiveness.

Course Objectives:

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
○ Understand Lean principles and their application in supply chain and logistics
○ Identify and eliminate the seven wastes (Muda) in supply chain processes
○ Apply Value Stream Mapping (VSM) to visualize and improve workflows
○ Implement Just-In-Time (JIT) and pull system strategies
○ Use Lean tools like 5S, Kanban, and Kaizen for continuous improvement
○ Drive a Lean culture across the supply chain organization

Target Audience:

○ Supply Chain Managers and Supervisors
○ Logistics Coordinators and Analysts
○ Operations Managers
○ Continuous Improvement Professionals
○ Warehouse and Distribution Managers
○ Procurement and Inventory Specialists

Course Delivery Method:

○ Interactive instructor-led sessions (online or in-person)
○ Practical group exercises and simulations
○ Real-world case studies and problem-solving workshops
○ Lean toolkits and templates for immediate application
○ Facilitated Kaizen event planning

Course Outlines

Module 1: Introduction to Lean in Supply Chain and Logistics

○ Fundamentals of Lean thinking and principles
○ The history and evolution of Lean
○ Understanding customer value and waste (Muda)
○ Lean supply chain overview
○ Role of Lean in enhancing competitiveness

Module 2: Identifying and Eliminating Waste

○ The seven wastes in supply chains: Transport, Inventory, Motion, Waiting, Overproduction, Overprocessing, Defects
○ Waste identification techniques
○ Practical examples from logistics and distribution
○ Impact of waste on costs and service levels

Module 3: Value Stream Mapping (VSM)

○ Introduction to VSM concepts and symbols
○ Mapping current state processes
○ Identifying bottlenecks and improvement opportunities
○ Designing future state maps for Lean flows
○ Implementing VSM improvements

Module 4: Just-In-Time (JIT) and Pull Systems

○ Principles of JIT inventory management
○ Benefits of pull vs. push systems
○ Kanban systems and visual controls
○ Reducing lead times and batch sizes
○ Synchronizing supply with demand

Module 5: Lean Tools for Supply Chain Improvement

○ 5S workplace organization
○ Kaizen and continuous improvement culture
○ Standard work and mistake-proofing (Poka-Yoke)
○ Root cause analysis and problem solving
○ Lean performance measurement

Module 6: Implementing Lean in Supply Chain Organizations

○ Overcoming resistance to change
○ Engaging teams in Lean transformation
○ Sustaining Lean improvements
○ Aligning Lean initiatives with business strategy
○ Case studies from manufacturing and distribution sectors