Once the team has selected a kanban signal, it's time to develop the rules that govern its operation. The rule should address:

• The part numbers covered by the kanban

• How the design works how the cards, magnets, etc., move

• The meaning of the scheduling signals and how to interpret them

• Any scheduling rules of thumb (if required)

• The preferred production sequence (if one exists)

• Who to go to and what the "helpers" should do when contacted

• Any special quality or documentation requirements

Remember, you are drafting the rules to communicate how to run the kanban and to allow the process operators to schedule the line. The only way the production operators can take over scheduling the line is by the rules providing clear direction and scheduling guidance.

The rules should be specific and designed to make sense for your operation and the process. The rules should assign responsibilities by function (avoiding names) and should not allow buck-passing of responsibility. Finally, never forget this basic thought when developing the kanban rules: If you want something to happen in a certain way, it better be spelled out in the kanban rules!

When you discuss how the pieces of the kanban will be manipulated, be specific:

• If this happens, then do this.

• The kanban card will be placed in _____ when ______ occurs.

• Move the magnet to the _____ when this occurs.

• When _____ happens, call ____ at ext. _____.

• Complete this form and fax to _____.

Once again,...