The identification and elimination of waste is the core of any Supplier Development activity. We will define waste, and look at possible causes and symptoms.
Waste can be found in every aspect of business. As shown here, many kinds of resources are input and then, transformed to create products and services that meet the needs of the customer. In addition, we also generate waste through this transformation.
Waste is the enemy. It drives costs up and quality down, and creates long lead times that slow response to customer requirements. Waste gives no value, it only creates addition work.
An environment must be created in which everyone is encouraged and challenged to use their creative skills to eliminate all forms of waste from the work they perform.
