Lean manufacturing as an organized systems approach is a fairly new practice (within the last 50 years). Many companies today have adopted lean manufacturing practices based on the success of former companies. What are some early practices/companies that have contributed to the study of lean today that are not Motorola, General Electric Corporation, Toyota, Western Electric, Ford, BAE Systems Controls, Maytag, Northrop Grumman, or Lockheed Martin Aeronautical Systems.

At least 350 words. Include the works cited in the report (not part of the 350 words). Your report should include: the company you found, the best practice it used to contribute to lean manufacturing research as a whole, and the time period the company contributed its early findings. You are required to research companies/practices set forth prior to the year 2000.