Final answer:
The statement is False. Autonomation deals with smart automation for quality control, while Just-in-Time relates to efficient inventory management.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "Autonomation is the JIT/lean tactic of automating the transfer of production between steps in a production process." is False. Autonomation, also known as Jidoka, refers to the concept of adding an element of human judgment to automated machinery. In a lean manufacturing context, it entails giving machines the ability to detect when a problem occurs and to stop autonomously, preventing the production of defective products.
In contrast, the Just-in-Time (JIT) system, developed as part of the Toyota Production System, focuses on inventory management, ensuring that materials and components are supplied throughout the production process just in time for their use, and not before. This approach minimizes waste, reduces warehousing costs, and improves quality control by immediately identifying any defects in supplied parts.
Thus, while both autonomation and JIT are important components of lean manufacturing, they represent different aspects of the production process. Autonomation is related to automation and quality control, whereas JIT pertains to inventory and supply chain efficiency.