Cycle Counting by ABC
Inventory accuracy is fundamental to manufacturing and distribution. A 3-tiered cycle counting system can simplify inventory management while improving accuracy.
Strategies to Reduce Operational Cost without Capital Investment
Focus on operational cost reduction strategies to continue growing efficiently while also giving yourself pricing wiggle room.
Often Overlooked Value of Production Planning
Developing and maintaining a working production plan is no easy feat, but the best planners make the job seem effortless. Production planning is often overlooked as to its true value. Perhaps it is because it is often delegated to lower-skilled resources? Or perhaps it is because it is in [...]
Inventory Velocity
By implementing a SIOP process you’ll be in a better position to leverage your resources for a speedier inventory velocity. Inventory velocity not only accelerates cash flow but it also can contribute to margin improvement. How do we turn inventory faster and keep our money in motion vs. stagnating in the back of our warehouse?
Navigating the Widening Skills Gap
Published in tED Magazine on November 2014 According to a survey performed by the LMA Consulting Group (lmaconsultinggroup.com) in conjunction with the APICS Inland Empire Chapter (apics-ie.org), 87% of manufacturers and distributors are experiencing a skills gap—that is, they have lost qualified people to retirement, job transfers, etc. The [...]
SIOP Metrics: 5 Key Baseline Measurements
Of all the overlapping metrics available to executives the best ones enhance SIOP (Sales Inventory Operations Planning), also known as S&OP, and offer the most vital information for running a business.
Master Scheduling Strategies to Add Value
A master schedule is an integral part of your production plan and communications to your team to centralize focus.
Manufacturing Wages are Going UP!
Published October 10, 2014 I recently read an article in the Wall Street Journal about the fast rise of manufacturing wages in some areas. The largest increase has been in Texas at 25%; however, wages are beginning to rise across the board. According to my skills gap research study, [...]
The Manufacturing Connector – Profit through People
More than ever manufacturing and distribution operations are linked and fueled by people worldwide. When you make them the cornerstone of your success profit will follow. When I talk about The Manufacturing Connector(SM), I am referring to the comprehensive process to connect the rapid assessment and identification of key [...]
What Sort of People Culture Do You Need for Lean?
Team attitude, knowledge, skills, and resources will make or break the successful implementation of lean. The best managers prepare the company culture for a bumpy but rewarding ride.