Definition
Cycle Time is the time required to complete one unit of work or one production cycle under defined operating conditions.
Human Explanation
Cycle Time describes how long one complete operation takes from start to finish.
Why it Matters
Understanding Cycle Time supports capacity planning, workload balancing and performance improvement.
Conceptual Boundary
Cycle Time should not be confused with Lead Time or Takt Time.
Practical Perspective
Reducing Cycle Time without considering quality or flow may simply move problems elsewhere.