single-piece flow is a key concept in a lean operation attempting to implement jit inventory principles. but in order to implement single-piece flow, a company must be able to

1.change between products quickly and inexpensively by reducing setup times

2.hold increased work in process inventory to support the smaller batch sizes production builds

3.build manufacturing orders (work orders) in batches

4.have a push system utilizing kanbans to support manufacturing

5.have supplier partners who are willing to deliver on a re-occurring weekly or monthly basis