BackStreet Lean: Solutions for the Job Shop, Plant Edition
Through the successful application of Lean in the job shop, a group of world-class plants share their best practices and numerous photos from their shops.
TABLE OF CONTENTS BackStreet Lean: Solutions for the Job Shop, Plant Edition
Phase 1: Starting Lean
Overview
Section Overview
Lean Actions in Phase 1 lay the groundwork for implementing and maintaining Lean practices in the organization. The journey begins with top management's commitment. CEOs and leaders in the organization perform many of the activities required for planning and getting Lean initiatives organized.
| Critical First Action | Develop a three-year plan is the first step, and a prerequisite to all Lean initiatives. The plan solidifies management commitment and communicates goals to the organization. Sharing trends and financial information about the company helps employees understand the need for becoming Lean. Putting off the planning process fosters an environment of crisis management when dealing with unplanned activities. |
| Critical First Action | Determine core competencies ensures work efforts are focused on activities that are most productive for the organization. Activities such as surveying resources including machine capabilities, external customers, and internal customers are led by top management and include a cross-functional work team's participation. |
Communicate to employees the plan and the reasons for implementing Lean. Prepare a formal presentation and hold a meeting away from the company to convey the importance of the plan. Analyze employee resistance and be prepared to resolve negative issues related to the changes that will be taking place within the organization.
Benchmark other companies and get tips and ideas from people who are successful at Lean initiatives. Focus on weak work areas and see how other companies are handling problems related to Lean practices.
Select a cellular leader and team to implement the first...
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