Final answer:
Option (C), An andon is a system of lights at workstations to signal problems or slowdowns in lean manufacturing practices, providing real-time visual communication and is distinct from jidoka, automation, pull systems, and kanban.
Step-by-step explanation:
A system of lights used at each workstation to signal problems or slowdowns is known as a(n) andon. This term comes from the Japanese manufacturing practice and is a key component of the Toyota Production System, which is one of the inspirations for lean manufacturing practices around the world. An andon system serves as a visual management tool, improving communication and allowing for immediate response to issues such as equipment malfunctions, quality problems, or shortages. In contrast to jidoka and automation, which involve stopping production when a problem occurs and mechanizing processes respectively, an andon specifically refers to the signaling system used to indicate status and draw attention when intervention is needed. It is different from a pull system, which is a method of controlling production through demand, and kanban, which is a scheduling system for lean and just-in-time (JIT) production.