Lean knowledge base

Toyota Production System (TPS)

What TPS means, why it is the foundation for many Lean principles and how it helps organise flow, quality and learning.

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Core answer

What is TPS?

TPS stands for Toyota Production System. It is a management and production system that designs processes so abnormalities become visible, flow improves and people learn to address problems at the cause.

Practical view

Important TPS principles

01

What does flow mean in TPS?

Flow means work moves through the process as uninterrupted as possible, with minimal waiting time, handovers, inventory and rework.

02

What does jidoka mean?

Jidoka means building quality into the process. Abnormalities are made visible so teams can stop, understand and improve.

03

Why is standard work important in TPS?

Standard work makes the best known way visible. This helps teams recognise abnormalities and improve deliberately.

Deepening

Learning to apply TPS

01

Can you learn TPS in a course?

Yes, but TPS requires more than explanation. Participants need to practise principles through cases, simulations, process observation and problem solving.

02

Which training fits TPS deepening?

Green Belt builds the basis. Black Belt deepens analysis and leadership. Toyota Business Practice deepens structured problem solving.

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