When and where did Lean methodology begin?

The origins of Lean methodology can be traced back to the practices utilized during the Craft Production era, which began in the 1880s. During this time, production was characterized by skilled craftspeople who took pride in their work and produced goods with a focus on quality and efficiency, albeit with low volumes.

This historical context laid the foundation for what would later evolve into the Lean principles known today. Lean thinking emphasizes the elimination of waste while maximizing value, concepts that were implicitly present in Craft Production, where every step of the process was directly related to the skill and techniques of the craftsmen.

While later developments in Lean, such as those introduced in the 1940s through Business Process Improvement and the mass production principles in the 1910s, built upon earlier methodologies, the fundamental roots of Lean were established in the Craft Production period, where the focus on quality and efficient use of resources was paramount.

This makes the choice based on the 1880s Craft Production the most accurate representation of when Lean methodology began.