Which approach focuses on minimizing waste in processes?

Lean Management is centered on the concept of minimizing waste while maximizing productivity. This approach originated from the Toyota Production System and is designed to streamline processes, eliminate non-value-adding activities, and enhance overall efficiency. By focusing on value from the customer's perspective, Lean encourages organizations to identify and remove any waste—be it time, materials, or labor—that does not contribute to the final product or service.

The method employs several tools and techniques, such as value stream mapping and the 5S system, to help organizations visualize their processes and identify areas for improvement. Implementing Lean Management results in improved operational efficiency, reduced costs, and faster delivery times, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction.

While approaches such as Quality Control, Agile Methodology, and Total Quality Management also aim at improving processes, they do so with different focuses. Quality Control centers on maintaining the standard of output, Agile Methodology prioritizes flexibility and quick responses to change, and Total Quality Management emphasizes continuous improvement in quality across all organizational levels. In contrast, Lean Management singularly emphasizes the elimination of waste, making it the most relevant choice for the question.