Implementing Milkrun in Lean Production

Abstract

Milkrun denotes a material conveyance and replenishment method to deliver and retrieve materials simultaneously. The method has gained popularity in the manufacturing industries to improve logistic efficiency and facilitates lean transformation by simulating pull system, reducing inventory and streamlining processes to eliminate waste. This paper introduces a multi-step milkrun system development and implementation framework. Aligned with lean philosophies, several components were extended through the framework, such as leader standard work and continuous improvement. A case study, based on the final assembly of an electronics assembly company is adopted to illustrate the execution of the implementation framework. The approach successfully generates a significantly complete, stable and integrated milkrun. As a practical implication, the work provides guideline to practitioners to systematically develop and implement milkrun as primary material handling system in production.