The widespread movement to lean and agile manufacturing is pulling many companies into unfamiliar territory. Customers and competition are forcing manufacturers to produce their products with less waste, inventory, personnel and resources, while simultaneously giving customers more product and configuration options, all on shorter lead times with more delivery flexibility.

As customers asserting their control over terms and relationships and competition forces improve efficiency, companies must respond by gaining more control over their own processes, materials and suppliers.

The techniques and processes for accomplishing these goals are often grouped together under the term "lean and agile manufacturing." However, "lean" and "agile" are not the same. The important differences between lean and agile can cause conflicts in how processes are established and resources are managed. Fortunately, there is enough common ground between the two models to enable companies to be lean and agile. Automated data collection (ADC) and real-time communication technologies make it possible to profitably transition to lean and agile processes, and enhance their ability to work in harmony.

The technologies must be at the base of lean and agile manufacturing initiatives. Using bar code or radio frequency identification (RFID) to identify materials, parts or components builds the foundation for a company to execute many elements of lean and agile manufacturing strategies, such as continuous replenishment, build-to-order production and just-in-time/just-insequence delivery.

Industrial mobile computers and wireless networks help lean and agile manufacturers satisfy their needs for distributed information and decision making.