We are all called on to trim the fat and become more efficient.  You understand the basics but putting thoughts/goals into action is all too often an overwhelming effort.  But, an effort worth tackling.

In a recent training class with a number of quality professionals we were given a test assignment to simulate a manufacturing assembly process.  We set up multiple work centers in our training room and took on multiple roles.  Our team, which consisted of people with years of experience in streamlining processes were able to improve this simple process tremendously in the 3 days during 4 simulated runs.  But, there were some surprises along the way and each one of us learned some useful lessons.  The key lesson reinforced was that applying key metrics, monitoring and analyzing results leads to welcome process improvements, no matter how “simple” the process may seem.  It’s amazing how complex a “simple” process can become!

Some years ago (yes, I’m getting old), we were hired to lead a software project with a company that had just spent $300,000 on a new machine (Rolling Mill).  The General Manager looked at this rolling mill as his crowning achievement for efficiency.  This new machine made product faster, cheaper and with higher quality than ever before.  He had never spent that much on a single piece of machinery so he made sure it ran all shift, every shift.  He had his plant humming, producing product day and night.  He complained that the sales staff couldn’t keep up with his efficient process.  He figured if he spent that much on a machine he was going to get his money’s worth.  Soon after we began a SyteLine ERP software implementation project at his plant we made strong recommendations for real efficiencies.  Unfortunately, within a few months he was looking for more inventory space.  As you can imagine, he is no longer the General Manager and the rolling mill is scheduled when demand calls for it.

This may seem like an extreme example, but how many opportunities do you have in your business for improvement?  During our software implementations, business consulting engagements and software development projects our team of Manufacturing Performance Specialists will help you continuously improve and implement needed change.  We regularly help manufacturing leaders fine tune their processes and apply technology where needed to get real value from their people and systems.  We bring these years of experience to your project.  Our Professional Services staff averages over 20 years in manufacturing.  We’re not just trainers or a support desk.  We have former COO’s, CFO’s, General Managers, etc. that worked in your industries.  We have Information Technology professionals that have led teams at the executive and senior management levels – that are now ready to bring their experience to your project.

I’ll leave you with a question about your processes and technology.  How many systems and processes in your business do you KNOW are broken at some level?  Think about it.  Need help getting the answers you’re looking for?

We’ll see you soon!