Mudamura, and muri are Japanese terms that refer to the three categories of waste found in a business. Understanding each is key to implementing proper lean manufacturing processes.

3 M Principle

1.MUDA (WASTE)

Literally translated, muda means “futility; uselessness; wastefulness,” though more broadly it refers to the seven common sorts of waste seen in business

Mura refers to “unevenness” or “irregularity” -- specifically, irregularity in production levels.

2.MURA (UNEVEN)

“Beyond one’s power” is an especially potent definition for muri, because it refers to employees or equipment that are overburdened

3.MURA (UNEVEN)