Lean is more than a simple collection of tools; it is an interconnected system that focuses an entire organization on creating the value that customers want in the most efficient and effective way possible.

In an effective Lean system:

• Practitioners work continuously to eliminate the defects and rework in their systems
• Material and information is "pulled" by downstream processes in the system
• Value-added work is enhanced and non-value-added work is minimized
• Resources (including employee skills) are maximized to the greatest extent possible