Visual displays and controls help keep things running as efficiently as they were designed to run. The efficient design of the production process that results from lean manufacturing application carries with it a set of assumptions. The process will be as successful as it was designed to be as long as the assumptions hold true. A factory with expansive visual display and control applications will allow employees to immediately know when one of the assumptions has not held true. Audio signals in the factory are also very important because they signal malfunctioning equipment, sound warnings before the start of machine operation, or other useful information.
Visual management is an important support for cellular manufacturing.
Visual management techniques express information in a way that can be understood quickly by everyone. Sharing information through visual tools helps keep production running smoothly and safely. Shop floor teams are often involved in devising and implementing these tools through 5S and other improvement activities. Visual information can also help prevent mistakes. Color coding is a form of visual display often used to prevent errors.