Lead Time

Lead-time is the interval between the initiation and completion of a process. For example, the lead-time between the placement of an order and its delivery from the supplier is the most common lead time used in procurement. Reducing lead-time is an integral part of lean thinking and some supply chains have been configured to create rapid setup and small runs so that production can occur quickly in response to an order that pulls materials through the supply chain. See also Demand, Pull and Lean Thinking.