Written by an expert who has seen firsthand the limitations of traditional lean manufacturing, this book demonstrates how an awareness of manufacturing business metrics is absolutely essential for every lean manufacturing practitioner. The author outlines case studies relating world events and manufacturing efficiency and presents lean manufacturing strategies and techniques designed to accelerate responses to current and future events on the floors of the world's manufacturing facilities. The book introduces key methods for harnessing market forces by following the Three Golden Rules to reduce production and inventory costs.