Six Sigma Principles

The Six Sigma methodology is one that focuses on creating quality products and eliminating defects. Though Six Sigma is a vast idea that spans a number of Lean philosophies and methods, at its core, Six Sigma is driven by three principles: Process Improvement— Companies should take consistent action to eliminate root causes of deficiencies within…

Jesse Allred | February 18, 2019 | Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma | 2 min read

What is a Gemba Walk?

Gemba walks are an important concept in your Lean toolbox. Managers and business leaders go on Gemba (“go and see”) walks to observe firsthand how the production line is operating. The Objective of a Gemba Walk In businesses, managers often look to company leaders for direction. The value created by a business, though, exists out…

Jesse Allred | February 11, 2019 | Lean | 2 min read

The 5S Shine Pillar – Inspection and Maintenance

The third step of 5S is Seiso, a Japanese term translated to mean Shine. During Shine, workers are encouraged to do a deep cleaning of their space, ensuring there is no grime, dust, or oil spills remaining. However, it is important to remember that cleaning is not the only facet of this phase and that…

Jesse Allred | January 15, 2019 | 5S, Lean, Lean Manufacturing | 2 min read

Using Kanban to Reduce Waste and Inventory

Utilizing the kanban system in your manufacturing facility can greatly reduce wastes, eventually adding value for the end customer. Kanban is commonly used in Lean manufacturing settings and JIT manufacturing settings, A kanban system utilizes visual cues to trigger specific actions, effectively cultivating a pull production system. What’s the difference between a pull system and…

Jesse Allred | January 9, 2019 | Kanban | 2 min read

The Tools of Kaizen

Kaizen is the methodology and philosophy of making small continuous improvements in business. It can be both an ongoing daily commitment or be implemented in a series of Kaizen events. Kaizen involves employers from all levels and works to make small incremental changes in nearly every aspect of the workplace. There are many tools used…

Jesse Allred | September 27, 2018 | Kaizen | 3 min read

The Toyota Production System House

 The Toyota Production System, or TPS, is a widely-used and successful production system in manufacturing that focuses on reducing and eliminating waste, while producing quality products for consumers. The TPS model was developed by the Toyota Motor Corporation for their vehicle production system, but the principles and activities it encompasses can be applied to nearly…

Jesse Allred | September 20, 2018 | Kanban, Lean | 2 min read

Money may not be the Only Motivation for Employees

Keeping employees motivated is one of the most important thing managers and leadership teams can do for their business. Motivated employees not only contribute more to the company in the way they work, but they also come up with innovative new ideas, inspire others and provide many other important benefits. While it is obvious that…

Tony Ferraro | January 2, 2014 | Continuous Improvement | 3 min read

How to Get Employees More Involved

It is commonly said that the employees of a company are its most valuable resource. This is true on many different levels. Of course, employees are necessary for getting the day to day work done in any business, and without them, the company would quickly have to be shut down. What is perhaps more important,…

Tony Ferraro | December 31, 2013 | Continuous Improvement | 3 min read

What is an Incident Management System?

The term “incident management” is thrown around a lot in almost all types of industries today. While most people will have a general understanding of what type of thing it is used to describe, most don’t really understand exactly what an incident management system really is. Incident management is a term that has been used…

Tony Ferraro | December 23, 2013 | Continuous Improvement | 3 min read

Is OSHA’s proposal for E-Reporting going too far?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has put forth a proposed rule that will require many employers to track injuries and illnesses electronically on a new system. If approved, the rule will require this type of reporting take place at least every quarter. For employers with 250+ employees, the website where the data will be sent…

Tony Ferraro | December 19, 2013 | Continuous Improvement | 3 min read