This book reviews the concept of lean thinking and its relationship to other key initiatives associated with supply chain management. Coverage reviews the theory and principles behind lean supply chains and details other related concepts, including mass customization, agility, information sharing and the bullwhip effect. The book introduces a methodology used to measure the performance of supply chains; this methodology comprises the tools of decision timeline, data-flow diagramming, supply chain value stream mapping and a performance measurement scorecard. Detailed industrial case studies based on the authors’ experience illustrate the principles behind lean supply chains. In addition, a series of diagrams help illustrate critical concepts and supply chain architectures. Readers will gain a clear picture of the competitive implications of lean supply chains.