“Elimination is the best form of Automation”.

This resonates because it is true. 

We talk a lot about “simplification” of processes and technology landscapes. What is “simplification” but the elimination of unnecessary clutter, tasks and “noise” that do not directly contribute to the primary outcome of a process?

The Lean movement is renowned for it’s focus on simplification and the elimination of waste.

You could argue that LEAN is a subset of Six Sigma focusing only on reducing cycle time and eliminating waste, maximizing value to the customer while using as few resources as possible. 

Toyota developed their “3M” system around eliminating three enemies of Lean: Muda, Muri and Mura. 

MUDA, waste, can be defined in eight types: Defects, Overproduction, Waiting, Non-used Talent, Transport, Inventories, Motion and Excess processing. 

MURI, overburden, can result from Mura, and from removing too much Muda (waste) from the process. When people or machines are utilized for more than 100% to finish their task, they are overburdened. 

MURA, unevenness, can be found in fluctuation in customer demand, process times per product or variation of cycle times for different cycles.

An appreciation of Muda, Muri and Mura should benefit us all in our pursuit of better process outcomes.

You can read the excellent source article by Thijs Panneman here ..