For a smart factory to truly "digitize" its data during operations, it must prioritize the application of technological tools. Without strong impetus from these tools, the construction of the smart factory will progress very slowly or even stagnate.

Lean production and smart manufacturing operate on distinct levels; lean production is a management methodology, while smart manufacturing is a technological approach to realizing the manufacturing process.

Many factories encounter management misconceptions, such as the belief that Lean Manufacturing involves only a few projects, that it is solely the responsibility of management, and that factory management authority has not been delegated. These issues deserve our attention and resolution.

The essence of Toyota's lean production is primarily reflected in two aspects: first, the lean production tools that foster a value stream mindset, and second, the transformation through problem-solving intelligence, which promotes the deep integration and consistent implementation of lean production with smart manufacturing.

(1) Avoid blindly pursuing perfect production lines; (2) Avoid blindly pursuing zero inventory; (3) Avoid launching a full-scale Lean Management initiative that merely goes through the motions.

During the implementation of lean production, enterprises often encounter challenges such as insufficient establishment of people-oriented concepts, inadequate foundational work, ineffective communication and improvement efforts, and failure to tailor plans to actual circumstances.

The key elements for the success of Lean Manufacturing are essentially enterprise leadership, planning, and proof-of-concept pilots. Excellent management practices are crucial for the successful implementation of Lean Manufacturing.

Lean production management is characterized by three distinct features: (1) Emphasizing the activation of proactive initiative; (2) Pursuing a “zero‑waste” objective; (3) Implementing flexible manufacturing systems.

The lean production management model is a production management approach that takes customer demand as the driving force, centers on eliminating waste and continuously improving processes, enabling enterprises to achieve optimal benefits with minimal input.

Lean manufacturing, meaning “less but better,” allows the manufacturing sector to forgo superfluous inputs, reduce production costs while delivering high‑quality products, ensure that all manufacturing activities are efficient and beneficial, and grant traditional manufacturers access to broader markets.