Lean Manufacturing

Lean Manufacturing For The Small Shop

Lean Manufacturing for the small shop is one of the masterpieces (so it claims) by Gary B. Conner which has been recognized by the Shingo Prize committee. This book talks about the implementation of Lean techniques by Gary B. Conner in a job shop environ. The book is written in a simple, lucid style and draws certain sections from war stories. All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable read for readers- Lean Manufacturing for the small shop.

Has Lean Manufacturing for the small shop garnered only positive reviews?

As is the case with most books, Lean manufacturing for the small shop has received a fair share of criticism from its readers. While some section claims that this book is an excellent read, some of them also feel let down because of the book. Here is a snapshot of points that readers have pointed out with the book.

• CD Issues - Lot of readers have complained about the fact that some of the files provided with the book just do not run well on a CD. The user-unfriendly CDR and the digital mapping software used for Connor's book has meant that a lot of readers have had to spend long hours in front of the internet downloading a compatible version of Acrobat reader to view the files.
  
  
• A guide for learning Lean and implementing on manufacturing processes - A lot of readers have disputed this claim of the book especially, the professionals who have a lot of experience with Lean Manufacturing techniques. They feel that this book just provides an overview of all the Lean tools and does not discuss how to deploy these techniques on manufacturing processes.
  
  
• The interesting readability factor - has been countered by many a readers who claim that it is merely an eye-wash. The book jumps on the fact that what reads well, sells well. And on this count, a lot of critics say that by means of original contents to deploy lean techniques, this book has got nothing new to offer.

Buoyed by the debate on Lean Manufacturing for the small shop, I decided to see it myself. I logged online to www.amazon.com and bought this book for $62. After reading the book, I could identify with what all the critics were saying about the book. This book presents knowledge of Lean Manufacturing techniques in an informative manner and that it could draw parallels from war stories makes it a very enjoyable read. But if I was a Business Owner and looking to deploy Lean techniques on my manufacturing processes, I would be heavily disappointed from the contents of the book.