This practical course provides comprehensive training in applying lean principles specifically to distribution, logistics, and supply chain operations. Participants will learn how to identify and eliminate waste throughout the supply chain while improving flow and creating customer value. The curriculum covers lean tools and techniques tailored to logistics environments, including value stream mapping, pull systems, standardized work, and visual management. Through real-world examples and hands-on exercises, attendees will develop actionable plans for implementing lean in their organizations. This course emphasizes practical application and sustainable implementation of lean methodologies.
Implementing Lean Principles in Distribution, Logistics, and Supply Chain Operations
Supply Chain Management and Procurement
October 25, 2025
Introduction
Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand lean principles and their application in supply chain contexts
- Identify and categorize waste in distribution and logistics operations
- Apply value stream mapping to logistics processes
- Design and implement pull systems in supply chains
- Develop standardized work for logistics activities
- Utilize visual management tools in warehouse and distribution
- Measure and improve flow in supply chain operations
- Lead lean transformation initiatives in logistics
- Sustain lean improvements through continuous improvement
Target Audience
- Supply Chain and Logistics Managers
- Distribution Center Managers
- Warehouse Operations Managers
- Logistics and Transportation Specialists
- Process Improvement Leaders
- Operations Supervisors in logistics
- Supply Chain Analysts
Methodology
- Hands-on value stream mapping exercises
- Warehouse simulation activities
- Case studies of lean logistics implementation
- Group discussions on waste elimination
- Gemba walks and real-world observation
- Practical tool application workshops
Personal Impact
- Enhanced ability to identify and eliminate waste
- Improved problem-solving skills
- Stronger analytical capabilities for process improvement
- Increased confidence in leading lean initiatives
- Better understanding of flow optimization
- Enhanced change management skills
Organizational Impact
- Reduced operational costs through waste elimination
- Improved customer service levels and reliability
- Reduced inventory levels and carrying costs
- Enhanced supply chain flexibility and responsiveness
- Standardized and more predictable processes
- Continuous improvement culture in operations
Course Outline
Lean Fundamentals for Supply Chain
Core Lean Concepts- History and evolution of lean thinking
- The seven wastes in logistics and supply chain
- Value-added vs non-value-added activities
- Lean principles applied to supply chain
- Customer value definition in logistics
- Perfect order concept and measurement
- Total cost of ownership perspective
Value Stream Mapping in Logistics
Mapping Techniques- Current state value stream mapping
- Identifying process bottlenecks and constraints
- Data collection and analysis for mapping
- Material and information flow mapping
- Designing ideal future state
- Kaizen burst identification and prioritization
- Implementation planning from VSM
Lean Warehousing and Distribution
Warehouse Operations- Lean storage and layout principles
- Standardized work in warehouse operations
- Visual management in distribution centers
- 5S implementation in warehouse environments
- Route optimization and load planning
- Cross-docking and flow-through distribution
- Transportation waste reduction
Pull Systems and Inventory Management
Pull System Design- Push vs pull systems in supply chain
- Kanban systems in logistics
- Supermarket design and management
- Replenishment trigger mechanisms
- Reducing inventory while maintaining service
- Cycle counting and inventory accuracy
- Right-sizing inventory buffers
Lean Transportation and Flow
Transportation Efficiency- Milk run design and implementation
- Consolidation strategies
- Mode selection and optimization
- Creating continuous flow in supply chains
- Cross-functional process integration
- Lead time reduction strategies
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