Lean Thinking Tip# 9: The Jig Is Up

Jigs are wonderful aids in the fabrication process.  Not only do they increase efficiency but they also improve precision.  Furthermore, more craftsman joy often derives from creating a clever jig than making the product itself.  Nonetheless most jigs are one time affairs.  I sometimes revisit these and wonder how in the world do you use it?  I have not left myself "operating instructions."  As these jigs accumulate they only add to shop clutter, and often the best place for them is as shown on the left.  "The jig is up."