[ES] Lean Supply Chain Methodology: what is it and how to apply it in the warehouse?

The warehouse is a key place for a company’s operations. Applying a Lean Supply Chain methodology will help you to optimally manage your logistics activity and satisfy the end customer. Because there is nothing more beneficial than an efficient supply chain.

What is the Lean Supply Chain methodology?

Before answering this question, it is worth asking another question: Do you know the Kaizen philosophy? This Japanese term means “change for the better” and was popularised by car manufacturer Toyota in the 1950s as a method to increase performance. The aim of this thinking was to eliminate activities that consumed resources without contributing anything.

The Lean Supply Chain method is inspired by this Japanese philosophy, as it consists of optimising all the processes in the supply chain by limiting material, economic and time losses as much as possible. By rationalising the links in this chain, it is possible to reduce time and optimise stock, minimising costs and, as a result, improving profitability. However, applying this method requires a profound change in work habits and close monitoring of performance metrics. Among others, of the 5 essential KPIs for order management in the warehouse.

How to apply the Lean Supply Chain method in your warehouse?

If you want to implement this change in your supply chain, we recommend that you follow these three steps:

1. Examine your current performance – do you know these five questions to optimise your supply chain? It is very important that you analyse and evaluate each task or phase of the order management process, such as picking and packing, in order to identify possible errors and establish opportunities for improvement. Not only will this help you prioritise activities, it will also help you assess the resources required, such as the budget to make these changes, the cost of modifying tasks, the skills and training that employees possess or require, and the IT equipment you may need.
2. Automate repetitive processes and tasks. Every minute is critical, so automating recurring tasks will put an end to a lot of frustration and wasted time. To do this, examine each link in the supply chain individually. Once optimised, ensure smooth interactions and keep team members fully informed.
3. Incorporate the latest technologies. Digitalisation and the use of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data and blockchain not only foster the development of logistics 4.0, but can also significantly differentiate you from your competitors. Powerful warehouse management software anticipates stock movements and improves responsiveness, reducing delays and rationalising costs. With this data you will be able to make better strategic decisions.

Advantages of using the Lean Supply Chain methodology

• Improve your productivity and competitiveness. By automating repetitive tasks, employees will work better and increase their motivation and efficiency.
• Reinforce the value of your supply chain. By applying this optimisation, each task within the chain gains in accuracy and added value.
• Manage stock more efficiently. Inventory turnover will be much more effective, storing products for less time and reducing related costs.
• Minimises failures within the supply chain. This method eliminates anomalies and errors, detecting them at an early stage for quick and optimal resolution.
• It promotes collaboration between all those involved. Efficient management strengthens the relationships between everyone involved: employees, suppliers, carriers and end customers.
• It gives more satisfaction to the customer. All actions, such as reducing lead times or delivery reliability, aim to nurture the loyalty of your audience.

It is clear that applying the Lean Supply Chain methodology will simplify the work in the warehouse, but these changes require a strong commitment from the entire staff. As RAJA® likes to make it easy for you, do not hesitate to contact us if you need any kind of help for the logistic management of your warehouse or if you want us to advise you on the purchase of our products. Consult our catalogue and… Don’t complicate things!