In the context of Lean, what does the term 'Flow' refer to?

In the context of Lean, the term 'Flow' primarily refers to the ease of moving work through a process. It emphasizes the importance of minimizing delays and bottlenecks to ensure that work progresses smoothly and efficiently from one stage to the next. This not only enhances productivity but also increases the overall value delivered to customers by reducing cycle times and waste.

By focusing on the flow of work, organizations aim to create a seamless experience where tasks are completed without unnecessary interruptions. This concept is fundamental to Lean thinking, where improving flow can lead to faster delivery, enhanced quality, and better customer satisfaction.