Lean

A management approach that maximizes customer value while removing waste, originating in the Toyota Production System. Centers on flow, pull, and continuous improvement.

When you'd see it: Manufacturing and operations, plus 'Lean startup' in product. Words like 'waste,' 'value stream,' and 'Kaizen' signal a Lean influence.

Why it matters: Lean reframes improvement around the customer's definition of value and treats everything else as waste to remove. The discipline is cultural, not a one-time project.

Common mistakes: Using Lean as a synonym for headcount cuts. Removing waste is about process, not just cost.

Related Kaizen, Six Sigma, Kanban