Process Improvement 101

I once mapped out multiple severe bottlenecks and mind-boggling money wasting processes throughout the entire procurement organization in a pharmaceutical company.  The Procurement manager became so upset over our discoveries, he shut done the whole project out of embarrassment and fright of losing his job. That is just one example. The issue at heart is that you don’t need fancy consultants or individuals that believe they have all...

Without a doubt Kaizen. Kaizen When I was at Pratt and Whitney Aircraft Canada more than 14 years ago, our VP of Operations brought in Japanese Kaizen experts that had worked at Toyota in Japan. With the multiple and continuous improvements that this method brought, we gained enormous efficiencies in the supply chain and in some cases reduced engine lead times from 24 to 4 months. That VP, Louis Chenevert went on to become Chairman...

The 2013 Logistics and Supply Chain Management event in Las Vegas gave me a chance to present as well as connect with a number of outstanding people and organizations. Here are the major tips from the week which pertain to our business the most. Presentations regarding master data governance (including CIF – APO core interface) with or without APO were the most popular. Before launching sophisticated tools like APO, make sure you are...

You’ve seen it too often; dreadfully boring PowerPoint presentations killing audience participation.  Or one assertive executive forcing his or her view on how business processes and SAP should work. How about company projects to improve the Supply Chain based on which VP yells the loudest? All these methods are incredibly outdated and as technology and processes become more and more sophisticated you need to capitalize on your best...

There are a few ways to create a world class supply chain. When I talk about Supply Chain I’m starting at the Sales and Operations Plan and integrating all key functions to make that plan a success. Oliver Wight I’ve recently completed participating in a project based on the principals of the Oliver Wight system of Sales and Operational Planning excellence.  What I admire about this methodology is that it is a very holistic approach...

A few areas I have experience with. Master Data – It all starts here. The Master data process must insure that data input is 100% accurate and efficient. Sales and Operations Planning Smoothing – The Sales plan will blow down to your demand affecting master scheduling, capacity, and subsequently MRP and Shop floor control. MRP Exception Message measurements – Exception messages indicate that there is an exception to...