Tiếng Việt
1. Introduction to Just in Time in Lean
Just in Time (JIT) is one of the most important production methods in the Lean Manufacturing system. The goal of Just in Time is to deliver products, components, and materials at the right time – in the right quantity – and at the right place, thereby avoiding excess inventory and reducing waste.
In today’s highly competitive era, maintaining excessive inventory not only increases costs but also puts pressure on cash flow. Just in Time helps businesses effectively address this issue while also improving productivity and product quality.
2. Origin and Philosophy of Just in Time
Just in Time originated from the Toyota Production System (TPS), which was strongly developed after World War II. Taiichi Ohno – an engineer and later Toyota’s production director – is considered the “father” of this method.
The philosophy of Just in Time is based on three principles:
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Produce only what is needed – No overproduction.
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Produce when needed – Fulfill actual orders or real demand.
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Produce the exact required quantity – Avoid creating unnecessary inventory.
3. Core Principles of Just in Time
To successfully implement Just in Time, businesses need to adhere to the following principles:
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Continuous production flow – Minimize disruptions and optimize processes from raw materials to finished products.
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Pull system – Produce based on actual demand, not by producing in advance and waiting to sell.
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Inventory optimization – Maintain the lowest possible inventory level while ensuring uninterrupted production.
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Quality at the source – Each stage must ensure quality so it does not affect the subsequent process.
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Continuous improvement (Kaizen) – Constantly seek ways to optimize time, cost, and quality.
4. Benefits of Applying Just in Time
Applying Just in Time brings many benefits to businesses, including:
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Reduced inventory costs: No need to store excessive raw materials or finished goods.
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Improved cash flow: Less capital tied up in inventory, enabling faster capital turnover.
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Enhanced quality: Streamlined processes help detect and address defects early.
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Increased production efficiency: Eliminate waiting time and non-value-added activities.
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Quick market response: Easily adjust output when demand changes.
5. Challenges and Risks of Just in Time
Alongside its benefits, Just in Time also carries certain risks:
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Supplier dependency: A single delivery delay from suppliers can halt the entire production line.
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Supply chain disruption risks: Natural disasters, pandemics, or economic crises can all have an impact.
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Increased transportation costs: Frequent small-batch deliveries may lead to higher logistics expenses.
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High accuracy required: Production and delivery schedules must be extremely precise.
6. Steps for Effective Implementation of Just in Time
To successfully apply Just in Time in Lean, businesses can follow these six steps:
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Assess current processes – Identify bottlenecks, waiting times, and excess inventory.
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Standardize production processes – Set clear standards for each stage.
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Build supplier relationships – Ensure they can deliver quickly and reliably.
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Implement a pull system – Produce based on actual demand.
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Leverage technology – Use ERP and inventory/production management software to monitor in real time.
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Continuous improvement – Constantly seek ways to reduce time and waste in processes.
7. Real-World Examples of Successful Just in Time Implementation
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Toyota – The JIT Legend: Minimized inventory, production based on orders, and ensured high quality.
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Dell – Builds computers to customer specifications, avoiding large inventory.
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McDonald’s – Prepares food only when customers order, keeping it fresh and reducing waste.
8. Integrating Just in Time with Other Lean Tools
Just in Time is more effective when combined with other Lean tools, such as:
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Kanban – Manages workflow and production signals.
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5S – Organize and maintain a clean and orderly workplace.
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Kaizen – Continuous improvement to sustain long-term efficiency.
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TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) – Comprehensive maintenance to prevent machine breakdowns and production interruptions.
9. Common Mistakes When Implementing Just in Time
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Copying the model without adapting it to actual conditions.
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Bỏ qua yếu tố con người – Nhân viên chưa được đào tạo kỹ về JIT.
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No contingency plan for supply chain disruptions.
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Focusing only on inventory reduction while overlooking the overall goal of optimizing the entire system.
10. Conclusion
Just in Time is not just a production method but a management philosophy that helps businesses become lean, flexible, and cost-efficient. However, to succeed, companies need to integrate Just in Time with other Lean tools, build a strong supply chain, and maintain continuous improvement.
Proper implementation of Just in Time helps businesses not only reduce waste but also enhance their competitiveness in the global market.
