Which of the following is a characteristic of the "just-in-time" (JIT) method?

The "just-in-time" (JIT) method is fundamentally centered around the principle of minimizing inventory and reducing waste. This approach focuses on producing goods only as they are needed in the production process, which helps in reducing the amount of inventory held at any given time. By having less inventory on hand, companies can significantly decrease waste related to overproduction, storage costs, and the risk of obsolescence.

In a JIT system, production processes are closely aligned with actual demand, allowing businesses to respond more flexibly to changes in customer needs while ensuring that resources are utilized efficiently. This is why minimizing inventory and reducing waste is a core characteristic of the JIT method.