Takt Time
Takt time is the pace at which a product must be completed to meet customer demand. It is determined by the market, not by the machine.
Takt time answers a simple question: How often must a finished product leave the line to satisfy the customer? It is calculated by dividing available working time by customer demand.
Unlike cycle time, which describes how fast a process actually runs, takt time sets the target pace. If cycle time exceeds takt time, production is too slow -- creating a bottleneck. If it's shorter, there is overcapacity.
Takt time is the backbone of Lean production: It synchronizes all process steps to the same pace and makes deviations immediately visible. Without takt time orientation, different stations produce at different speeds, leading to inventory buildup and waiting times.
In practice, takt time is recalculated regularly as customer demand changes. Seasonal fluctuations, new product launches, or market growth require adjustments to production speed.
Formula
Takt Time = Available Working Time / Customer Demand per Period
Practical Example
An automotive supplier has a shift of 450 minutes (minus 30 minutes for breaks). The customer orders 420 parts per day. Takt Time = 420 min / 420 parts = 1 minute per part. Every minute, a finished part must leave the line.
How Leanshift Helps
Leanshift automatically calculates takt time and compares it with the measured cycle time. This allows you to see at a glance whether your process is fast enough to meet customer demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between takt time and cycle time?
Takt time is determined by the customer (demand). Cycle time describes how long a process step actually takes. Cycle time must be less than or equal to takt time.
What happens when cycle time exceeds takt time?
Customer demand cannot be met. Solutions: Eliminate the bottleneck, speed up the process, run overtime, or open a second line.
Does takt time change?
Yes, whenever customer demand or available working time changes. That's why takt time should be regularly reviewed and the process adjusted accordingly.
Related Terms
OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness)
OEE is the key metric for machine and equipment productivity. It combines availability, performance, and quality into a single percentage value.
Cycle Time
Cycle time measures how long a single process step actually takes -- from start to finished result. It is the foundation of every process analysis.
Lead Time
Lead time measures the total duration from order receipt to delivery -- including all waiting, storage, and transport times. It determines delivery capability.