How To Reduce Waste In Your Business

‘Waste’ in business doesn’t just refer to the things you throw away. It also means any wasted time, money or energy. Because wasted time and energy is wasted profits. What we’re looking at today is a simple way to improve efficiency and productivity in the workplace. However, we’re doing this in a very specific way; by reducing the waste. A lot of companies tend to focus on improving productivity by adding new systems. We prefer to focus on eliminating the wastage first. Here are just some of the ways to do that.

Lean manufacturing

What we’re talking about today can generally be summed up by the term ‘lean manufacturing’. Everything we’ll discuss in the coming paragraphs comes under this umbrella term. It’s all about reducing waste within any manufacturing system. It addresses the waste lost through overburdening systems and employees. It also addresses the waste created by uneven work loads balanced between people and systems.

Only order what you need

One of the core foundations of buying from suppliers is ‘buying in bulk’. It generally allows companies to purchase huge amounts of supplies at a low cost. While this seems like a great idea, it’s actually very wasteful. A more prudent strategy is to only order what you need. It may cost a small amount more, but at least you aren’t left with a store-room full of unused, wasted supplies.

‘Just in time’ (JIT)

Just in time manufacturing refers o a system whereby everything is made ‘just in time’. It was a system pioneered by Japanese manufacturers at Toyota. Essentially, it’s all about creating a fluid and precise work-flow that eliminates wasted time. Nowadays, lean manufacturing is an extension of the JIT system. It often relies on impeccable timing and precision, but it eliminates virtually any wasted time or money.

Simple organisation

Eliminating waste all comes down to a very simple formula that revolves around productivity. When each and every employee works productively, there is no wasted time on their part. That means there’s no wasted money on your end. To achieve this level of productivity, ensure that the workspace is organised simply and effectively. That means workers can easily carry out their jobs, without distraction.

Outsourcing

Outsourcing achieves a great deal of things in the business world. It allows experienced professionals to improve the flow and quality of your business. It also frees up your existing employees to focus on the core aspect of their jobs. Overall, it will help you balance out the company finances. It reduces waste by unburdening your staff with menial tasks that grind down their productivity. By using your staff for just the core elements of your business, you are reducing waste significantly.

Equipment effectiveness

At regular intervals, assess the effectiveness of your equipment and computer systems. These tools are designed to reduce waste and boost productivity. So, ensure they are functioning correctly and at their optimum efficiency.

By reducing the waste in your business, you actively increase the productivity in your workplace. This translates into better performance, and increased profits. What could you do to cut waste in your business?