Resumen

PEREZ RAVE, Jorge et al. Identifying and characterizing of wastes (Muda) in transportation, processes, movements, and waiting time, in nine manufacturing SMEs incorporating the perspective of the operational level. Ingeniare. Rev. chil. ing. [online]. 2011, vol.19, n.3, pp. 396-408. ISSN 0718-3305.  doi: 10.4067/S0718-33052011000300009.

Is identified and characterized in terms of: quantity, type, location and expression, transportation, waiting times, movements, and unnecessary processes, in nine manufacturing SMEs in the city of Medellin. The procedure consisted of the stages: selection of processes to be studied (one per company), operating personnel training (7 Wastes (Muda), 5S and visual management), deep session with management of the Muda identification form, verifying in the shop floor (Gemba), results and analysis. Consolidating the findings for the nine companies, 151 workers were trained, which helped to identify 1.085 activities that do not add value to the customer, with an average of 121 per process-company, most were transportation (31%) and unnecessary movements (29%). Methodological elements are provided to facilitate communication between the operational level and others, as well as training and active participation of the same, making it possible to identify opportunities for business improvement. It offers information of interest to academia, government, technology development centers and the productive sector.

Palabras clave : SMEs; manufacturing wastes; Lean manufacturing; continuous improvement.