It has become harder to remain lean when consumers are dictating what is produced. Nowadays, manufacturers must customize their products and do so under shorter deadlines. This forces them to switch parameters more often, adding complexity to already tight schedules, expenses to slim margins and risk to quality and compliance. With consumers’ tastes in constant flux, it’s also difficult to plan in advance. This further challenges them to remain efficient and cost-effective. If they’re going to thrive, they must recoup time and money – all while keeping quality and compliance high.