Glossary · Manufacturing systems
Takt time
Also known as: Takt
German: Taktzeit
In lean manufacturing, takt time is the available production time divided by the customer demand in that period, giving the rate at which one unit must be completed to meet demand.
- Manufacturing systems
In one sentence
Takt time is available production time divided by customer demand: the rate at which units must be completed to meet demand.
Example
With 450 minutes of available time per shift and a demand of 225 units, the takt time is two minutes per unit.
How it applies
- Engineering: Line balancing distributes work so each station's cycle time is at or just below the takt time. Takt time determines staffing and the number of stations.
- Operation: Paced lines move at the takt; andon systems signal when a station can't complete its work within the takt.
- Planning: When demand changes, takt time changes. Lines designed for a fixed takt need rebalancing or different staffing.
- Documentation: Station work instructions should fit the takt: the work content described must be achievable in the available time, including checks. When takt changes lead to redistribution of tasks, update the instructions for all affected stations.
Takt time vs. cycle time
Takt time comes from demand; Cycle time comes from the process. The German Taktzeit is sometimes also used for machine cycle time, so check which meaning a source uses before translating.