What is one of the primary focuses of Lean in manufacturing processes?

The primary focus of Lean in manufacturing processes is on eliminating redundancies. Lean methodology emphasizes the importance of streamlining operations and removing waste to enhance efficiency and productivity. By focusing on eliminating unnecessary steps, materials, or resources that do not add value to the end product or service, organizations can improve their overall efficiency and effectiveness. This approach not only reduces costs but also accelerates production times and increases customer satisfaction by ensuring that only value-adding activities are prioritized.

In contrast, vertical integration, long-term employee contracts, and external supplier negotiation are not central tenets of Lean. While these aspects may play roles in broader operational strategies, they do not directly address the fundamental Lean principle of maximizing value through the elimination of waste and redundancies in processes.