Lean Logistics
Logistics is where the work gets done. Consequently, LeanCor is directly involved with all operational aspects of the logistics function. Starting with logistics network design and continuing into transportation and facility management, LeanCor will manage the entire scope of the operation. With an operational infrastructure based on “supplier malls” and consolidated line hauls, LeanCor can offer all aspects of Lean transportation and cross docking while still maintaining a focus on overall transportation costs.
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Lean Logistics
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Order Processing
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Logistics Network Design
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Transportation Management
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Expedite Management
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Warehouse Management
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Cross Dock Management
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Facility Yard Control
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Material Handling
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Inventory Management
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Internal Conveyance Design
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Packaging Design
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There is no question that Lean and Six Sigma principles will contribute positively to logistics and supply chain activities. The challenge is to understand how to leverage the value of Lean and Six Sigma in logistics. At times, Lean principles can also be counterintuitive, making it difficult for operations people to embrace the value proposition. For example, a transportation manager will struggle with the concept of increasing frequency of deliveries if personal performance is measured on transportation costs. Hence, for Lean Six Sigma Logistics to be implemented successfully, it must be a corporate initiative. This is not to say that the company must be a Lean organization prior to implementing Lean in the logistics functions. Of course it is ideal if the organization has embraced Lean holistically, but Lean and Six Sigma bring many applications that can be applied to logistics in the absence of a corporate Lean initiative.
What does this tell us? The important lesson is that Lean and Six Sigma teach us sound business principles. Lean and Six Sigma are not a trend, fad, or “flavor of the month.” They are a well packaged set of business excellence principles and tools. The trick is to unwrap the package and choose the principles and tools that are needed and best suit your particular situation. By using those principles and tools, an organization can design a supply chain excellence model that will fit the culture and goals of the particular company.
History of Lean Logistics
Lean logistics started as the inbound logistics function supporting Lean manufacturing. Therefore, if you mentioned Lean Logistics, you were talking exclusively about the inbound process connecting suppliers to a manufacturing facility practicing Lean. Typically, this meant the inbound function was focused on increasing frequency of delivery, leveling flow, and reducing inventories. Fortunately though, Lean and Six Sigma started to be implemented in non-manufacturing environments where the principles and tools could still be applied. This acted as a catalyst for Lean and Six Sigma to be embedded in logistics in a more general sense. To this end, we now have two focuses relative to Lean Logistics. These are:
- Lean Logistics 1: The inbound logistics function supporting a Lean manufacturing facility.
- Lean Logistics 2: Logistics activities where the overall operational strategy is based on Lean Six Sigma principles and tools. This can include transportation, warehousing, order management, material handling, and inventory control.
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