Efficient Flow:

The need for quick throughput and the avoidance of substantial work-in-progress inventory and therefore the need for space necessitate, and enable, efficient flow systems to be established. The quick movement of items among processes is necessary prerequisite. Therefore, Rationalization of flow is a requirement.

These three aspects are the necessary characteristics of a JIT system. They are the essential characteristics. However, in practice, due to the manner in which JIT is normally pursued, there are three additional characteristics:

Employee Involvement

The interdependence of operations, the rapid flow and the absence of buffers necessitate smooth and efficient control. In practice, it has found to necessitate the active participation of all employees. In this way, possible disruptions may be seen and avoided, and operations scheduling and control are improved. However, in practice, the introduction of JIT improves communication among workers and participation of employees. It is pursued due to the intrinsic benefits. JIT in effect provides the opportunity to achieve participation in matters such as quality control, problem solving work, etc.

Kanban

Kanban implies "sigh" or "instruction card" in Japanese. Kanban helps in regulating activities in JIT systems. The Kanban system and its derivatives have become the standard means for attaining production control with JIT.

Visibility

One of the principal objectives of JIT is visibility. Visibility is the ability to see what is happening and what the level of stocks is. This is ensured by making a simple system.