What is Standard Work?

One of the first steps in improving any manufacturing operation is identifying the best way of performing tasks and operating machines and developing a standard work procedure for everyone to follow. A standard work procedure is the result of organizing tasks in the best sequence of steps to operate machines, make the best use of people, tooling and materials.  More about standard work procedures.

The core idea of standardized work is to determine the most efficient (as in: “muda-free”) work sequence and to repeat it exactly in the same way so that operators avoid unnecessary motion and wasted effort. Standardized work guarantees quality and precision, saves time, maintains safety and prevents equipment damage.