scope:

The scope defined in VDI 2870 Part 1 is applied. There is described, that a lean production system is not limited to the scope of production. Furthermore, it is methodical system, which is applicable to all processes in the enterprise. Basically, all core processes, management processes and support processes are affected by this. Since the enterprises vary according to the branch of economy, goods and services, and according to core competencies, the scope of the present guideline is limited to producing enterprises.

In addition, the effects of LPS introduction are not sufficiently examined for a few enterprise processes (e.g. product development process). Therefore, the principles, methods and tools of this guideline preferably focus on the application within the order handling process, with the sub-processes manufacturing and assembly as well as the support processes logistics, human resource management, quality management and maintenance management.

Within order handling and the support processes, a lean production system is applicable to all enterprise levels under consideration as well as the supply chain. The inclusion of the three levels of consideration, workplace, location and enterprise, is necessary due to the various interdependencies. (Figure 1) Exclusive consideration of individual workplaces or locations only results in punctual improvements without a sustained and comprehensive effect.