ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Muda (Japanese term)

Hello there! We're going to talk about the Japanese term "muda."

Muda is a word that means "waste" or "inefficiency." It's usually used in the business world to talk about things that are taking up time, money or resources but aren't really adding any value.

Let's say your mom asked you to clean your room. You start by picking up your toys and clothes from the floor and putting them away in their proper places. That's a valuable use of your time, because you're making your room cleaner and more organized.

But then you start rearranging the furniture even though it doesn't make the room any cleaner or more organized. You're just doing it because you feel like it. That's muda! You're wasting your time and energy on something that has no real value.

In a business context, muda can take many forms, like unnecessary paperwork, overproduction of goods, or waiting for approvals. By identifying and eliminating muda, companies can become more efficient and productive.

So remember, muda means waste or inefficiency. When you're cleaning your room, or when you're running a business, it's important to focus on the things that add value and avoid wasting time and resources on things that don't.