Which is not the characteristic of Poka-Yoke?

Correct option is C

Poka-Yoke is a Japanese term (introduced by Shigeo Shingo) that means "mistake-proofing." While it is a critical tool within the Lean and Total Quality Management (TQM) frameworks, describing it as a "continual improvement strategy" is technically a mismatch because Poka-Yoke is a specific technique, not a broad strategy like Kaizen.
The statement that is not a characteristic of Poka-Yoke is (c).
Information Booster
· Mistake-Proofing (a): The literal goal of Poka-Yoke is to design a process so that it is physically or logically impossible for an error to occur. A classic example is the SIM card slot in a phone, which is shaped so that the card can only be inserted in one correct orientation.
· Zero Defect Products (b): By preventing errors at the source, Poka-Yoke ensures that defects are not passed down the line. If the error cannot happen, the product will be defect-free, leading to the goal of "Zero Defects."
· Identifying Errors During the Process (d): Poka-Yoke systems often use sensors or mechanical blocks to detect an error immediately as it happens (or even before it happens), stopping the process so the worker can correct it before it becomes a defect.
Additional Knowledge
The reason option (c) is incorrect lies in the distinction between a strategy and a tool:
· Poka-Yoke vs. Kaizen: Kaizen is the "continual improvement strategy." Poka-Yoke is a preventative tool used within that strategy. While Poka-Yoke contributes to higher performance, it is a fixed mechanism rather than a "continual" philosophy.
· Proactive vs. Reactive: Poka-Yoke is proactive. It doesn't just "improve" a bad process over time; it "locks" the process into a correct state.
· Types of Poka-Yoke:
1. Contact Methods: Physical shapes/sizes prevent errors.
2. Fixed-Value Methods: Alerts the user if a specific number of movements haven't been made.
3. Motion-Step Methods: Ensures steps are followed in a specific, mandatory sequence.
Summary Table