# Operator balance chart

Operations · `Operator balance chart` · verification: source checked

An operator balance chart is a graphic tool used to create continuous flow in a multistep, multioperator process by distributing operator work elements in relation to takt time. It uses vertical bars to show the total amount of work each operator must do compared to takt time, with each bar built by stacking small bars that represent individual work elements. It is used to redistribute work elements among operators so that each operator's work is nearly equal to, but slightly less than, takt time.

## Specification

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Kind | tool |

## Study notes

- Also called an operator loading diagram or a yamazumi board.
- The height of each stacked element bar is proportional to the amount of time that element requires.
- Creating the chart supports redistributing work elements among operators.
- Redistribution aims to minimize the number of operators needed by making each operator's workload very nearly equal to, but slightly less than, takt time.
- The document cross-references: Yamazumi Board.

## Sources

1. [Operator Balance Chart - Lean Enterprise Institute](https://www.lean.org/lexicon-terms/operator-balance-chart/) (accessed 2026-10-25)

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Source page: https://machineschema.com/operational/operator-balance-chart  
JSON: https://machineschema.com/operational/operator-balance-chart.json  
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