When is Lean used?

Lean methods and tools apply to any process where an employee:

• Chases information in order to complete a task
• Must jump through multiple decision loops
• Is constantly interrupted when trying to complete a task
• Is engaged in expediting (of reports, purchases, materials, etc.)
• Does work in batches
• Finds work lost in the "white space" between organizational silos
• Doesn't know what they don't know"

From Lean Six Sigma for Service by Michael L. George