Cycle Time

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  One of the most important components of standard work is understanding what the cycle time of a process is.  Cycle time is sometimes referred to as standard cycle time.  Cycle time is the amount of time it takes to complete an individual operation or task from start to finish.  In other words, the amount of time required to process one part.  This includes processing time on a machine, any manual work that may be required, waiting, inspection, walking and any other activities involved in processing the one part. 

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How to Calculate Cycle Time
  Cycle time can be calculated with a stopwatch.  In addition to calculating your cycle time with a stopwatch, one of the most common ways to calculate a cycle time is to clock the operations multiple times, for example 3-5 times and then use the average cycle time as your standard cycle time.

1. Define the start and end point.
2. At the start begin counting with a stopwatch, phone or other timekeeping device.
3. Stop when the operation or task is complete.

Challenge

• Calculate the amount of cycle time it takes to pour a glass of water.  Post your answers in the comments tab below.  Share your thoughts in the comments section below and receive a coupon to one of Lean Strategies International LLC's courses.

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