The is an analogy which shows a ship (company) floating on water (inventory).
...... A ship floating on lots of water (inventory) is well clear of any problems.
....... BUT, when the water level (inventory) is lowered, then the ship grounds itself on the rocks (problems such as defective materials are made more visible).
....... As rocks are removed (problems fixed), the organization works for continuous improvement and the ultimate goal of zero or very close to zero inventory.
