Toyotamodellen

The Toyotamodellen, commonly referred to in Swedish discussions as the Toyota Production System, is a manufacturing and management approach developed by Toyota Motor Corporation. It aims to optimize efficiency and quality by coordinating people, processes, and suppliers in tightly integrated flows. The system emphasizes eliminating waste, reducing inventory, and continuously improving operations.

Key concepts include just-in-time production (JIT), where parts are produced or delivered only as they are needed; Jidoka, or automation with a human touch, which stops production when quality problems occur; and kaizen, the practice of continuous incremental improvement. Standardized work and problem-solving routines underpin reliable performance, while heijunka (production leveling) smooths demand. The approach also stresses Genchi Genbutsu—going to the source to observe actual conditions—and close collaboration with suppliers.

Historically, the Toyotamodellen emerged after World War II as Toyota faced resource constraints. Taiichi Ohno and other Toyota engineers refined the system, drawing on production ideas from Ford, American supermarkets, and Japanese manufacturing. Over the latter half of the 20th century, TPS influenced lean manufacturing and was adopted by automakers and other industries worldwide. Benefits cited include shorter lead times, higher quality, and lower working capital through reduced inventories.

Critics note vulnerabilities to supply disruptions and the complexity of implementing the system, as results depend on organizational culture and supplier relationships. The term Toyotamodellen is often used interchangeably with lean manufacturing or the broader Toyota Way, though adaptations vary by company and sector.