SMED (Single Minute Exchange of Die) training teaches teams how to dramatically reduce changeover and setup times — ideally to under 10 minutes. Developed by Shigeo Shingo at Toyota, SMED systematically separates internal activities (done while a process is stopped) from external activities (done while running), converting as many as possible to external to minimise downtime.
The SMED process follows four key steps: (1) Observe and record the current changeover in detail. (2) Separate internal and external activities. (3) Convert internal activities to external wherever possible. (4) Streamline all activities — standardise, parallelise, and eliminate unnecessary steps. Each step typically delivers 25–50% time reductions, with cumulative reductions of 50–90% achievable.
No. While SMED originated in manufacturing, its principles apply wherever setup, mobilisation, or transition time is a source of waste. In construction, SMED is applied to scaffold erection and dismantling cycles, crane setup, formwork cycles, and area handovers. In healthcare, it is used to reduce theatre turnover times. In logistics, it reduces vehicle loading and dispatch times.
A SMED workshop is typically delivered over 1–2 days. The first half introduces the methodology and principles; the second half involves a live SMED event on an actual process or setup activity. This format ensures participants leave with both conceptual understanding and practical experience, with documented improvements to show leadership immediately.