Application of Lean Principles to Improve Raw Material Quality Inspection Efficiency: A Case Study of the Warehouse at Narai Intertrade Co., Ltd.
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Abstract
This study aimed to improve the efficiency of the raw material quality inspection process in a warehouse, using Narai Intertrade Co., Ltd. as a case study, through the application of Lean principles. A mixed-methods research design was employed, incorporating direct process observation, in-depth interviews, and quantitative analysis of inspection error records collected between July and December 2023. Lean tools, particularly Value Stream Mapping and waste analysis, were applied to identify non–value-added activities and operational inefficiencies within the inspection process.
The before–after analysis revealed a substantial reduction in inspection errors following the implementation of Lean-based improvements. The most frequent errors, including non-standard operations and mixed items, decreased from a maximum of 15 cases per month in the pre-improvement period to only 1–3 cases per month after continuous improvement measures were implemented. In addition, inspection lead time and work-in-process inventory were significantly reduced, resulting in a more systematic and streamlined inspection process. The findings demonstrate that Lean principles can effectively enhance raw material quality inspection performance and support warehouse operational efficiency in the context of Thai industrial organizations.
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