Lead Time, Takt Time, Throughput Time - A Lean Tutorial

All content about creating Lead Time / Cycle Time / Takt Time are part of the Lean Toolbox Download. Get more information about the Lean Toolbox here: leanactivity.com/toolbox/


Lead Time (LT) is one of those terms many speak about having different interpretations and meaning. When speaking about LT everybody should be aware of what he wants to describe. Though nobody should care if lead time is used in the right way or not unless others knows what you speak about. Also the term Throughput Time is an often used term describing something very similar to lead time though differences between both exist.

Imagine going to a fast food restaurant. Once you place an order, let’s say a hamburger, employees of the restaurant start to produce your order. If we take the time from placing the order until you receive your hamburger you will finally get the lead time of that product. At McDonald’s for instance the lead time is around 90 seconds depending on the product you order though we know some components of the hamburger are already prepared ahead, like the meat or sauces.

More at leanactivity.com

#leadtime #lean #HowTo