Kanban
Kanban is a method for managing how work and supplies move through a business. Think of it like a traffic light system that helps control when to order new items or start new tasks. It was first used by Toyota in their factories but is now common in many industries. The main idea is to only order or make things when they're needed, which helps avoid having too much inventory sitting around. While it started in manufacturing, many companies now use Kanban for project management too. You might hear people call it a "pull system" or "just-in-time" method.
Examples in Resumes
Implemented Kanban system that reduced warehouse inventory costs by 30%
Led team of 5 in transitioning warehouse operations to Kanban methodology
Used Kanban and JIT inventory management to improve supply chain efficiency
Typical job title: "Inventory Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Inventory Managers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement a Kanban system in a warehouse that's currently using traditional inventory management?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should cover planning stages, staff training needs, setting up visual management tools, and how to handle the transition period. They should mention ways to measure success and handle potential challenges.
Q: How do you determine the optimal Kanban card quantities for different products?
Expected Answer: Should explain how to analyze demand patterns, lead times, and safety stock requirements. Should mention considering seasonal variations and supplier reliability in calculations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the main benefits and challenges of using a Kanban system?
Expected Answer: Should discuss reduced inventory costs, improved efficiency, and better visual control, while also mentioning challenges like staff resistance to change and the need for reliable suppliers.
Q: How do you handle stock shortages in a Kanban system?
Expected Answer: Should explain emergency procedures, backup supplier relationships, and how to adjust Kanban quantities to prevent future shortages.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain how a basic Kanban card system works?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic two-bin or card system, how replenishment signals work, and the concept of minimum/maximum inventory levels.
Q: What's the difference between push and pull systems in inventory management?
Expected Answer: Should explain that push systems make products based on forecasts, while pull systems (like Kanban) produce based on actual customer demand.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic inventory tracking
- Understanding of Kanban cards and signals
- Stock counting and basic reporting
- Safety stock management
Mid (2-5 years)
- Kanban system implementation
- Inventory optimization
- Team coordination
- Supplier relationship management
Senior (5+ years)
- Full system design and implementation
- Cross-department coordination
- Strategic planning
- Process improvement leadership
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on inventory management experience
- Lack of understanding of basic supply chain concepts
- Poor communication skills (essential for coordinating with suppliers and team)
- No experience with inventory management software or systems
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