According to the CTSC Exam Content Manual1, Kanban is a lean manufacturing tool that uses visual

signals to indicate the need for a component or material in a production process. Kanban is linked to

consumer demand, as it triggers the replenishment of inventory only when there is actual

consumption. Kanban helps to reduce waste and labor by minimizing overproduction, inventory, and

waiting time. Option B, JIT purchasing, is a related concept that involves buying materials or

components just before they are needed in the production process, but it does not necessarily use

visual signals. Option C, Kaizen, is a lean manufacturing tool that involves continuous improvement

of processes and activities, but it is not specific to reducing waste and labor in the manufacturing

process. Option D, TOC, is a management philosophy that focuses on identifying and eliminating the

constraints or bottlenecks that limit the performance of a system, but it does not use visual signals to

indicate the need for a component.