Bottlenecks Are Opportunities
When looking for opportunities to improve operations, look for the bottlenecks. Bottlenecks are opportunities to improve operations. Picture how the top of a soda bottle narrows, letting less liquid...
View ArticleTechniques to Manage Bottlenecks
When one operations step controls the flow of the whole process, that choke point is called a “bottleneck.” The previous article explained how to find bottlenecks. What techniques can solve or manage...
View ArticleThe Process Mapping Conversation
“A picture is worth 10,000 words.” The visual nature of a process map makes it understandable. Once employees can see the process laid out in steps, they can start communicating with each other about...
View ArticleProcess Map Improvements Build Team Spirit
For the process mapping team, the excitement starts once they’ve collected their observations. Together, they map out how the process is actually done today. Along the way, you’ll hear a running...
View ArticleRemoving Waste from Processes
Robots are not the answer for a small business! To produce value at optimal cost, small businesses need simple techniques for removing waste, not expensive robots and complex MRP systems,. Your...
View ArticleTips on Labor and Material Cost Levers
Labor and material costs are worth examining closely. Each can amount to 20 – 25% of revenue, or run much higher depending on the type of business. In total, they can amount to 40 to 50% of revenue....
View ArticleHow Many Employees Do I Need?
Balancing customer service and production level while controlling staff costs is an issue for every business, large and small. It’s an issue because it’s important for key results: customer and...
View ArticleStaffing and Scheduling Strategy
Staffing and scheduling strategy is the link between forecasting demand and meeting it. After the prior article, you know how many people you need to satisfy demand (sales) each month or week. But...
View ArticleMeasure Supplier Performance
“If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it,” says one old saying. Look at your own business: are there any suppliers whose failure to perform could ruin your business? These are called strategic...
View ArticleImproving Operations Collected Links
Operations are the foundation of the business. Growth requires a firm foundation, so improve your operations before major expansion moves. The good news is that improving operations involves less risk...
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