Pull System / Kanban

Kanban is a technique for producing parts to meet customer demand. Historically, most manufacturers have operated using a Push System, building products into inventory without firm customer orders. Kanban is a Japanese word which translates as “card” or literally a “visible record” or sign. It is a method for maintaining an orderly flow of material into a work cell. Kanban cards are a part of Visual Management and provide a physical signal as to when a particular component within a production cell needs replenishment. Kanban cards are used to indicate material order points: