Module 8 · Lesson 4 of 29

Principle 2: continuous flow reveals problems

Learning objectives

Explain the purpose of principle 2: continuous flow reveals problems in garment operations.
Describe when and how to apply principle 2: continuous flow reveals problems on the shop floor.
Identify common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Short connected flow exposes delay, defects, imbalance and failure quickly so teams can solve causes.

Stabilize, reduce batch/queues safely, visualize interruption, respond at source. Do not force flow through unsafe or incapable processes.

Smaller bundles and linked operations reveal a machine or method abnormality before hundreds of pieces accumulate.

Stabilize, reduce batch/queues safely, visualize interruption, respond at source

Pick one answer per question. Explanations appear after you submit.

1. Which statement best captures the core idea of Principle 2: continuous flow reveals problems?
- Short connected flow exposes delay, defects, imbalance and failure quickly so teams can solve causes.
- It is a purely financial control unrelated to shop-floor work.
- It replaces the need for standardized work and training.
- It applies only to fully automated factories.
2. A common mistake when applying principle 2: continuous flow reveals problems is to:
- Do not force flow through unsafe or incapable processes
- Involve operators and validate with data.
- Link the tool to the observed problem and follow-up plan.
- Update the standard after a confirmed improvement.

Author: Sanjeewa Dehiwalage · Last reviewed: 2026-07-21