Lean System for Fixed Assets
A Lean System for Fixed Assets refers to the application of lean principles to the management of fixed assets. Lean principles are based on the concept of “lean manufacturing” or “lean production,” which is focused on minimizing waste within a system while simultaneously maximizing productivity.
When applied to fixed assets, a lean system would aim to:
- Eliminate Waste: This means getting rid of anything that doesn’t add value. In terms of fixed assets, this could mean selling off or repurposing underused assets, or better managing the maintenance of assets to extend their lifespan and prevent the waste of early replacement.
- Increase Efficiency: A lean system aims to streamline processes, which can include automating the tracking and management of fixed assets to reduce manual errors and labor costs.
- Continuous Improvement (Kaizen): Lean principles are not just about making one-time changes, but about continually looking for ways to improve. This could mean regularly reviewing and updating policies around the acquisition, use, and disposal of fixed assets.
- Respect for People: In the context of fixed asset management, this can mean training staff on how to properly use and maintain equipment, or involving them in decision-making processes around asset acquisition and disposal.
- Just-in-Time (JIT) Management: Just like with inventory, the idea is to have assets when you need them, but not to hold onto more than you need. This can help minimize costs associated with storage, maintenance, and depreciation.
By implementing a Lean System for Fixed Assets, a company can ensure that it is getting the maximum value from its assets, reduce costs, and improve its overall efficiency.
Example of a Lean System for Fixed Assets
Let’s consider an example of a manufacturing company implementing a Lean System for Fixed Assets.
- Eliminate Waste: The company realizes that a number of its machines are often idle. Instead of letting these expensive assets go unused, the company decides to lease them out during idle periods, generating additional revenue. They also find that some assets are rarely used and decide to sell them off, reducing unnecessary costs and freeing up space.
- Increase Efficiency: The company adopts an automated fixed asset management system. This software helps keep track of every asset’s lifecycle, from purchase to disposal, allowing them to keep track of depreciation, maintenance schedules, and usage. This helps them to better plan for replacements or upgrades and reduces the time and effort spent on asset management.
- Continuous Improvement (Kaizen): The company establishes a policy where they review their asset utilization every quarter. This includes assessing the performance of assets, monitoring changes in technology that might affect the value or efficiency of assets, and looking for opportunities to further reduce waste and increase efficiency.
- Respect for People: The company invests in training its employees on how to properly use and maintain the machines. This helps to reduce breakdowns and extends the lifespan of the machines. They also encourage employees to suggest ways to improve asset utilization, creating a culture of respect and engagement.
- Just-in-Time (JIT) Management: Instead of purchasing large equipment outright that they only need at certain times of the year, they enter into a lease agreement, ensuring they have the equipment when they need it and not when they don’t. This reduces the costs of maintenance, storage, and depreciation.
By implementing these lean principles, the company is able to significantly improve their fixed asset management, leading to cost savings and improved operational efficiency.
