Jidoka is a key concept in the Toyota Production System (TPS) and is often referred to as “autonomation”. Jidoka is a Japanese term that can be translated as “automation with a human touch” or “automation with intelligence.”

At its core, jidoka is a quality control process that empowers workers to stop the production line when a problem occurs or when a defect is detected. The aim of jidoka is to build quality into the manufacturing process by detecting and addressing problems at their source, rather than relying on inspection and rework.

Jidoka can be achieved through a number of methods, such as using sensors to detect problems in the production process, incorporating built-in quality checks into the machinery, and giving workers the authority and responsibility to stop the line.

Jidoka is closely related to another key concept in TPS, which is “Just-in-Time” (JIT) production. JIT emphasizes the importance of producing only what is needed, when it is needed, and in the quantity that is needed, in order to reduce waste and improve efficiency.

By incorporating jidoka and JIT into their production processes, Goodyear is able to achieve significant improvements in quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Today, jidoka has become a widely recognized and respected concept in the field of manufacturing, and is often seen as a key component of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.