Lean Shop Efficiency

Lean principles focus on eliminating waste, improving flow, and maximizing value for the customer. In a screen printing shop, this can start with small, simple changes that add up to noticeable gains. Organizing workstations so tools and inks are always within arm’s reach reduces wasted movement. Standardizing screen storage, ink mixing, and reclaiming processes ensures consistency and prevents rework. Even labeling shelves and supplies clearly can cut seconds from every task—seconds that compound into hours saved over a week.

Continuous improvement is the backbone of lean, and in a print shop that means regularly asking the team, “What slows you down?” and fixing it immediately. You don’t have to overhaul the entire workflow to see results—removing one bottleneck at a time builds momentum. Whether it’s mapping the production flow to spot inefficiencies or implementing a simple Kanban system for supply restocking, these small, intentional changes create smoother jobs, faster turnarounds, and less stress on press days.