What is the purpose of a poka-yoke in operations management?

The purpose of a poka-yoke in operations management is to avoid human error in processes. Poka-yoke, a Japanese term meaning "mistake-proofing," refers to various mechanisms or systems designed to prevent errors or defects from occurring during manufacturing or service delivery. These systems aim to ensure that the process is designed in such a way that it is impossible to make a mistake or that the mistake is immediately detectable.

By integrating poka-yoke techniques, organizations can significantly increase the quality of their outputs and reduce the need for rework or correction, ultimately leading to smoother operations and more efficient processes. This focus on error prevention contributes to enhancing overall product reliability and customer satisfaction. It fosters a culture of quality and continuous improvement, making it a fundamental concept in lean manufacturing and total quality management.