ANDON BOARD Meaning and
Definition
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An Andon board is a visual management tool commonly used in Lean manufacturing and production systems to provide real-time information and facilitate smooth operations within a facility. The term "Andon" originates from Japanese, meaning "lantern" or "signal light," and the concept behind an Andon board is to create a visual display that alerts workers and supervisors of the status of production processes, highlighting any issues or abnormalities that require attention.
Typically, an Andon board consists of a large, highly visible display located in a prominent area of a production floor. It utilizes a combination of colored lights, symbols, numbers, and text to communicate critical information to the workforce. The board is strategically designed to track the flow of production and provide updates on key performance metrics, such as production rates, downtime, quality control indicators, and safety issues.
The Andon board serves as a communication tool that enables employees to quickly identify problems or bottlenecks in the production process, promoting swift response and resolution. It encourages a culture of continuous improvement, empowering workers to take ownership of quality control and to actively participate in problem-solving and decision-making.
By employing an Andon board, companies aim to enhance overall productivity, increase operational efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality. It provides a visual framework that streamlines communication, promotes transparency, fosters teamwork, and supports the implementation of Lean principles. Ultimately, the Andon board acts as a beacon of awareness and accountability, aiding in the optimization of manufacturing processes and the achievement of organizational goals.
Etymology of ANDON BOARD
The term "andon board" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words, "andon" and "board".
"Andon" has its origins in the Japanese language, coming from the words "an" (安), meaning "peace" or "calm", and "don" (灯), meaning "lantern" or "light". The term "andon" refers to a traditional Japanese paper lantern, typically made of wash paper or silk stretched over a wooden frame, used to provide soft and warm lighting. It was commonly used in traditional Japanese homes and shops.
The word "board", in this context, most likely refers to a physical board or display used to provide visual information. It could be a literal board with lights or indicators or a digital display.
