Which of the following is a goal of lean manufacturing?

Minimizing waste in production is a fundamental goal of lean manufacturing. This approach emphasizes efficiency and aims to reduce waste in all forms, including excess materials, time, and labor. By streamlining production processes and eliminating activities that do not add value to the end product, lean manufacturing seeks to improve overall efficiency and productivity. This leads not only to cost savings but also to a more sustainable production process, where resources are used more judiciously and effectively.

The other options don't align with the core principles of lean manufacturing. Increasing employee wages focuses more on compensation and does not directly relate to the efficiency of production processes. Focusing solely on aesthetic appeal emphasizes design rather than operational efficiency, while ensuring rapid design changes pertains to flexibility and adaptability in product development rather than the lean principle of waste reduction. Therefore, minimizing waste in production stands out as the primary goal of lean manufacturing.