What type of waste results from a process that continues after it should have stopped?

Overproduction occurs when more products are made than are needed, leading to excess inventory and wasted resources. This type of waste arises from a process that continues beyond the necessary point, resulting in a surplus that cannot be immediately used or sold. The consequences of overproduction can include increased storage costs, spoilage of products, and the use of labor and materials that could have been allocated elsewhere more effectively.

In a lean environment, the goal is to produce only what is needed, when it is needed, and in the quantity that is needed. By stopping the process at the right moment, organizations can minimize waste associated with overproduction, aligning production closely with customer demand and streamlining operations. This approach is critical in achieving efficiency and maximizing value, key principles in Lean methodologies.