Barcodes are an older technology which have been used in many different industries for a very long time. The most well recognized type of barcode is a series of vertical lines of varying degrees of thickness. They can be scanned to provide a computer or other device a set of information, which can then be acted upon. There are many different types of barcodes and related technologies, including the QR code, that work in very …
Six Sigma is a manufacturing methodology that can easily get confusing. With statistics and its vast number of tools, it is important to understand the basics of implementation for a successful Six Sigma project. When it comes to integrating Six Sigma into your facility, there are two methods one can use as a guiding force. Both of these methods are based off of W. Edwards Deming’s Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle. DMAIC The DMAIC process is the improvement cycle …
Looking for a way to make your warehouse more manageable? Building a guiding system is the most important thing businesses can do to maximize warehouse efficiency. Without a sufficient guidance system, navigating warehouses and storage centers can feel like getting dropped off in the middle of forest you’ve never been to, then commanded to find your way home. With seemingly endless rows with racks and racks of products—many of which are packed in boxes or …
When you manufacture something, production is never on one constant level. Instead there are peaks and valleys that you will need to account for in your business. Products may be discontinued, altered, or even recalled, and demand is a constantly changing number. having a flexible manufacturing process will make it significantly easier to respond to production changes Kanban is a flexible system that is able to help you meet changes in demand and produce accordingly. …
Kaizen is the idea of having continuous improvement in the workplace bycontinuously making small incremental changes throughout time that will add up to a larger impact on the manufacturing process and ultimately the bottom line. Implementing the tools of Kaizen and going through Kaizen activities are important for the success and businesses may take different approaches. Daily Kaizen is often used to address smaller improvements while Kaizen events have a more specific focus on a …
Having a visual factory is essential for keeping a workplace runningsmoothly. It can greatly improve safety, increase efficiency, and promote organization in nearly any type of workplace. There are several components that go into an effective visual communication strategy including using signs, labels, and floor marking. Floor marking encompasses several components like floor tape, floor shapes, and floor signs/floor stickers. Floor tapes come in many different colors and materials, so you can truly customize your …
Organization in the workplace is essential in keeping a facility efficient and workers safe. By taking a few simple steps and implementing easy organization practices, you’ll find workers will not have to spend extra time searching for specific materials and tools, thus ensuring your customers will receive their orders as fast as possible. There are several areas and spaces around a workplace that could use some practical organizational strategies including workbenches, work cells, shelves, walkways, …
Have you heard of 6S? You might be familiar with 5S, a manufacturing methodology aimed to reduce waste and optimize productivity through creating and maintaining an organized workplace utilizing visual cues. 6S builds upon the original five steps, rounding it out with the sixth S: safety. Safety is an important component of productivity and waste and can effectively reduce downtime, reduce expenses, impact work quality, and create and foster safety culture in the workplace. Here …