Measure starting point and post the measurement visibly By day 45, the initial performance reading should be well understood and posted. This not only gives everyone an understanding of the opportunity available when performance is below 95+ percent, but also shows progress once activity begins. The performance signs should be big enough to be visible from several yards away (Figure 9-1), at minimum a standard-size sheet of paper readable from twenty-five feet away. Often this creates incentive among departments or storerooms to improve accuracy levels. It also creates an opportunity for managers (especially top managers) to ask questions about the accuracy as they walk through the facility. This will happen more often if there are signs posted like the one illustrated. In more advanced settings, managers have posted signs with photos of the process owners to increase the feeling of ownership and accountability. Use your imagination.

Figure 9-1. Sample performance board.

Education and training In Chapters 1, 2, and 3, education was discussed and its importance under- lined. It is imperative to have people with high levels of understanding if the cycle counting program is to be effective. This can only happen through proper education as described in earlier chapters. Education needs to be delivered by knowledgeable people who are enthusiastic about the process and expected results. Management must also be involved with the education for it to be fully effective. Line managers and supervisors are some...