What is a primary characteristic of agile manufacturing?

A primary characteristic of agile manufacturing is its ability to quickly adapt to changes. This agility allows manufacturers to respond effectively to fluctuating customer demands, varying market conditions, and evolving technologies. In an agile manufacturing environment, flexibility is crucial; it enables companies to reorganize and adjust operations swiftly to maintain competitiveness and meet customer expectations. This responsiveness minimizes downtime and enhances productivity, reflecting the central goal of agile manufacturing to achieve efficiency while maintaining the ability to pivot when necessary.

Other characteristics that deviate from agility, such as strict adherence to standard processes or high levels of fixed inventory, limit a manufacturer's flexibility and adaptability. Similarly, long production cycles are at odds with the principles of agility, which emphasizes swift turnaround times and the capability to adapt production processes rapidly to changing requirements.