by James McIntosh | Sep 7, 2021 | Improving manufacturing efficiencies, Lean manufacturing
The three manufacturing inefficiency culprits discussed today are: Consumables replenishment, Hitting targets, and Disjointed value streams. Stock Replenishment Let’s start with something simple – running out of those small consumables needed to do the work. Most...
by James McIntosh | Jul 28, 2021 | Improving manufacturing efficiencies, Lean manufacturing
If you are responsible for delivering results in manufacturing, many times this is because of the large capital outlay that your facility represents. Management needs to deliver a return on that investment, and so manufacturing asset utilisation is a key concern for...
by Wayne Griffiths | Jun 10, 2021 | Improving manufacturing efficiencies, Lean manufacturing
As George Bernard Shaw once said, ‘The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place!’. Whatever the communication method or reason, the aim is to respectfully transfer information and meaning, and ensure all parties reach a mutual...
by James McIntosh | Jun 2, 2021 | Improving manufacturing efficiencies, Lean manufacturing
Everyone knows Lean Manufacturing is Toyota, right? And it’s great for making high volume consumer goods like cars, washing machines and toasters, but not for our industry. Not so fast! Lean Manufacturing actually had its roots in the United States during World War...
by Wayne Griffiths | May 4, 2021 | Improving manufacturing efficiencies, Lean manufacturing
Emotionally Invested Coming from a corporate background, I love working with family businesses for many reasons, but I think the main reason is that there is a complete emotional and financial investment in ensuring the success of the business to ensure the prosperity...
by James McIntosh | Apr 12, 2021 | Improving manufacturing efficiencies, Lean manufacturing
In this article we will outline some of the quickest lean manufacturing actions that will help you achieve greater efficiency. These include engaging your people, eliminating waste, and selecting a key area for the initial implementation of Lean foundation practices....
by Wayne Griffiths | Mar 16, 2021 | Family businesses, Increasing manufacturing cashflow
Ever hired someone to do a job for you and regretted it? I know I have. The end result – substandard work and an outcome that was way less than satisfying. The professional service industry falls into two broad categories – qualification necessary (e.g. accountants...
by James McIntosh | Feb 23, 2021 | Improving manufacturing efficiencies, Lean manufacturing
Lean manufacturing is a collection of philosophies and proven practices that address issues common to every company in the world. It was famously perfected by the Toyota Motor Corporation and is most well known for being applied in high volume assembly lines for...
by Wayne Griffiths | Jun 19, 2020 | Family businesses
1. Home time versus work time It can be very challenging to leave work conversations at work and home conversations at home but if you cherish a normal family life without the stress of work-related issues, then it is important. Hold the whole family accountable to...
by Wayne Griffiths | Jun 19, 2020 | Manufacturing business revenue
We are approaching June 30 so it is time for reflection and planning. If you’re unhappy with your growth rate in the 2020 FY then apart from COVID-19 there are 5 key things holding your business back. The first one is YOU! You need to surround yourself with...