Which of the following terms is often used interchangeably with lean manufacturing?

The term "lean manufacturing" is closely associated with the concept of a "lean enterprise," as both focus on maximizing customer value while minimizing waste. Lean manufacturing emphasizes optimizing production processes, reducing unnecessary steps, and improving flow, directly correlating with the principles of a lean enterprise, which applies these ideas across the entire organization, beyond just manufacturing. A lean enterprise encompasses the entire value stream from product development to delivery to customers, making it a broader term that highlights the systemic approach of lean principles in an organization.

In contrast, the other terms do not capture the full scope and intent of lean manufacturing. "Just-in-time" refers specifically to inventory management practices aimed at reducing waste and improving efficiency, while "continuous improvement" is a process-focused approach that emphasizes ongoing enhancements but does not encompass the broader organizational strategy of lean. "Quality control" is focused on maintaining standards in products and services but does not directly relate to the elimination of waste and process optimization inherent in lean manufacturing principles.