Lean can refer to different concepts depending on the context. Here are some of the most common meanings:
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Lean manufacturing: A production method aimed at reducing times within the production system as well as response times from suppliers and to customers. It is closely related to another concept called just-in-time manufacturing. Lean manufacturing is a methodology that focuses on minimizing waste within manufacturing systems while simultaneously maximizing productivity.
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Lean thinking: A way of thinking about creating needed value with fewer resources and less waste. It is a practice consisting of continuous experimentation to achieve perfect value with zero waste. Lean thinking has a moral compass: respect for the humanity of customers, employees, suppliers, investors, and communities with the belief that all can and will be better off through lean practices.
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Lean business: A business that maximizes value while minimizing waste. A Lean business model focuses on improving processes across the value stream in order to eliminate waste and deliver optimized value to the customer. This can help teams and organizations achieve their goals in smarter, more sustainable ways.
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Lean drug: A recreational drug beverage, prepared by mixing prescription strength cough or cold syrup with soda and candy. The base for lean is a strong prescription cold medicine, specifically cough syrup that contains both promethazine and codeine).
In summary, the meaning of "lean" depends on the context. It can refer to a production method, a way of thinking, a business model, or a recreational drug beverage.
