What is a likely consequence of failing to adhere to standard work?

Adhering to standard work is crucial in maintaining consistency in processes and ensuring that the quality of output meets established standards. When standard work is not followed, there is a tendency for variations in methods and practices among employees. These inconsistencies can lead to defects, variations in product quality, and a higher likelihood of errors. As each worker might use their own preferred methods rather than adhering to a standardized approach, the overall reliability and quality of the products or services can be compromised. This consequence is particularly significant in industries where precision and consistency are vital to customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

In contrast, higher employee satisfaction, lower production costs, and improved team collaboration are typically outcomes of effective standard work practices, as they invite structure, clear expectations, and continuous improvement efforts rather than the chaos that may arise from uncontrolled variations in work methods.