Final answer:
A supermarket is an alternative to WIP in a pull system. In lean manufacturing, a supermarket pulls system as an alternative to WIP helps in controlling inventory and ensures that products are replenished based on actual customer demand, avoiding overproduction. The correct answer is A.
Step-by-step explanation:
An alternative to Work-in-Process (WIP) in a pull system is a supermarket.
In a pull system, production is driven by customer demand instead of pushing products into the production process regardless of demand.
A supermarket is a storage area where finished goods are stocked and made available for downstream processes, such as final assembly or shipping, based on customer demand.
In lean manufacturing, a supermarket pulls system as an alternative to WIP helps in controlling inventory and ensures that products are replenished based on actual customer demand, avoiding overproduction.
In a future state map, when considering an alternative to work in process (WIP), the type of pull system that can be used is a supermarket. In lean manufacturing, a supermarket refers to a controlled inventory of items that are replenished based on customer demand. This system allows for the regulation of inventory and smooth flow of materials within the production system. Unlike traditional WIP areas which can lead to overproduction, the supermarket system is designed to limit the amount of inventory based on what is actually needed downstream in the production process.