Lean Efficiencies and Cultural Change: Niagara Transformer retained The Center for Industrial Effectiveness (TCIE) to launch a comprehensive lean enterprise training program. Training and implementation support focused on space efficiencies, often featuring pull systems to reduce in-process inventory and optimize material movement. The program got started with lean overview training and a lean simulation exercise that included every member of the workforce. Steve Klock, Controller for Niagara Transformer, felt that value stream mapping exercises really got people’s attention. “ I saw people begin to realize just how much work really goes on here, whether in the operation next to them or across the plant. There was great communication across disciplines and renewed respect for one’s colleagues that really set the stage for the success of this program.”
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Lean Office Initiative: Perma Tech did not have a very good handle on inventory control and the company’s work order processing system was contributing to delays. Some lean improvements had been made in production areas; management hoped that lean could do even more to improve office efficiency, particularly in the area of work order processing. Perma Tech retained the services of UB’s Center for Industrial Effectiveness (TCIE). TCIE led an extensive training program on lean office implementation that featured hands-on training in 5S workplace organization, value stream mapping, standardized work, and problem solving methods. The program, which included over 100 hours of training, helped cut work order processing time by half, and helped to instill a problem-solving culture in the workforce and an appreciation for Lean applications in the office environment.Read the full case study for this project
Facility Layout-Bringing Three Offices Under One Roof: LPCiminelli contracted with TCIE to conduct a detailed operations analysis and to use that analysis as a basis to formulate an efficient office facility design. The suggested layouts gave efficient alternatives to LPCiminelli for their new office space, and provided a basis for discussion with contractors on construction related issued and with local authorities on building codes. Read the full case study for this project
Assessment of Inventory management: Working as a subcontractor to a consulting engineer, TCIE completed an assessment of inventory management activities for the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority bus maintenance garage. The TCIE team presented a wide range of recommendations to NFTA management. Read the full case study for this project
ISO 9001:2000 Implementation: Manitoba President Brian Shine regarding TCIE's training "Our employees embraced this process, and with TCIE's expert assistance, it has been a rewarding and educational experience that makes us better as a company. Furthermore, ISO 9001:2000 certification has improved our competitive position within the industry. We know we are winning new contracts and retaining clients, and some of the credit goes to certification to ISO standards. "
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Lean Consortium for Automobile Suppliers: Delphi Corporate Purchasing Manager Jerry Griffin regarding TCIE's training "The training consortium will be an excellent way for suppliers to achieve a working knowledge of lean principles which address supplier excellence. Delphi Thermal is committed to the removal of wasted actions and to a concentration on value-added activities, both keys to a company's well being and success."
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