Question

What are the weaknesses and limitations of Toyota Production System? Recommend and discuss ways to improve the system. 400 words.

Answer 1

Toyota systems are known for best application of 'lean system' strategy and 'Kaizen' v(continues improvement) over long period. It has been developing continuously over the years to get the best of each system. However, over the period of time, some of the strategies are not effective.

The weakness and limitations of Toyota Production systems are,

1. Implementation is very complex, time taking and require old system to dismantle as well as proper training to employees is very much necessary.

2. Problems with supply : The lean manufacturing system needs to keep small amount of inventory in hand, even though Just-In-Time method used. So they need a supplier that they fully trust not to interrupt or delay the supplies and always stay on schedule.

3. Problems of customer dissatisfaction.

4. It is difficult to convince employees to agree for changes

Remedies to improve system are

1. Reducing complexity and reducing cost by removing unwanted or unneeded features
of the system which are wasteful in implementation

2. Displaying strategic leadership by involvement of employees in decision making process i.e using Bottom up approach.