Question

Lean production should result in reduced inventories. If lean production is successfully implemented, the difference in net operating income computed under the absorption and variable costing methods should be reduced.

Answer 1

Answer:

True

Explanation:

If lean production totally eliminates inventories, the net operating income computed under the absorption and variable costing methods should be equal.  If lean production only reduces inventories, then the difference in net operating income under the two methods will be reduced.

Lean production is a system of production that tries to eliminate bottlenecks in the flow of goods by employing tools like just in time (JIT), Kaizen, and the 5S of Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain, among others.  It attempts to cut costs, reduce unnecessary inventory, shorten production cycle, speed response time, grant employees autonomy,  and reduce waste of resources while ensuring high quality and customer satisfaction.

Lean production employs some principles in order to achieve efficiency.  They are: 1) definition of value, 2) mapping the value stream, 3) creating efficient flow, 4) using a pull system, and 5) pursuing perfection in all aspect of production activities.  The Lean approach can be applied to services and other aspect of business, like system, structure, and organization.