Standard Work
Reference model
Takt time, work sequence and standard work-in-process define the standard; observation and audit keep it alive.
About this model
Standard work is a lean method that documents the current best-known way to do a task. It rests on three elements: takt time (the pace set by customer demand), the work sequence (the steps in order, with times and key points), and the standard work-in-process needed to keep the flow going. It is the baseline for improvement.
Originator not stated.
How to read it
- Start with takt time: the total operator time in the sequence should fit inside it.
- Read the work sequence step by step, checking the key points and the quality or safety checks.
- Any gap between the documented standard and what people actually do is the first thing to investigate and improve.
What this does
Defines the safest, highest-quality way to perform a repeatable task at the pace customers need, so the team can follow one agreed sequence and spot deviations quickly.
When to use it
Use it when a repeatable task is done differently by different people, or when quality, safety or lead time suffer from variation and a stable baseline is needed before improving further.
Not when: Do not use it for work that is mostly one-off, creative or highly variable, or when the process itself is still unstable and about to be redesigned.
What happens next
Walk the draft standard work through with the people who do the task, trial it on the floor, and then set up a regular audit and improvement cycle (kaizen).
Golden thread
Builds on ←
- Current process analysis
- Process mapping
- Time observation
Feeds into →
- Training materials
- Process improvement plan
- Audit checklist
Use this tool, free
Sign in to open the worksheet. Your work saves as you type, the AI can draft the parts you have not filled in, and you finish with an analysis and a 30/60/90-day action plan.
Drafted with AI and reviewed by Eccellere on 04/11/2026. Guidance, not advice: apply your own judgement.