Global Competition through Lean Manufacturing

Small manufacturing firs turn to lean techniques to increase their global competitiveness. ...

... "Quabaug and Mar-Lee, which each compete against lower-cost areas like China, streamlined their methods of operation to become more efficient and handle changing customer needs. Their use of so-called lean manufacturing and innovation puts them on the forefront of next-generation manufacturing ... " ...

Via Worcester Telegram: Next Gen Manufacturing Competes Globally

Solectron Lean Manufacturing Success at Guadalajara

Solectron Corporation's Guadalajara, Mexico facility wins the 2007 Shingo Business Prize for Excellence in Manufacturing. Solectron Guadalajara is recognized for demonstrating Lean Six Sigma leadership through operational and process improvements in quality, productivity and efficiency. ...

... "Underscoring the customer value of the Solectron Production System(TM), Solectron's Lean Six Sigma manufacturing methodology, Solectron Guadalajara demonstrated manufacturing excellence, including a significant focus on continuous improvement processes. The entire facility and its employees operate within the company-wide Kaizen culture of continuous improvement, which is at the heart of the Solectron Production System, or SPS. SPS helps OEMs improve quality and efficiency, reduce waste, lower cost and improve flexibility. " ...

Via Solectron: Solectron Receives Prestigious Shingo Award for Lean Manufacturing Excellence ...

Lean Techniques: GE Transportation Rail Manufacturing Plants

Pennsylvania and businesses invest in the improvement of manufacturing in the state. GE specifically is investing in lean manufacturing techniques to accelerate customer services and increase operational efficiency. ...

... "GE Transportation Systems plans to implement lean manufacturing techniques at its rail plants in Erie and Grove City, Mercer County, a project that is expected to cost $12.8 million. By applying this new operational strategy, the company expects to lower costs and shorten lead times to deliver orders and products. GE Transportation Systems has already fulfilled its commitment to the commonwealth to create 120 new jobs, is also retaining 4,486 existing jobs in Erie and 915 additional jobs at other Pennsylvania locations. The Greater Erie Industrial Development Corporation (GEIDC) supported the company in its efforts to obtain the investment package from DCED that includes a $250,000 Opportunity Grant and $250,000 in Customized Job Training (CJT). GE Transportation Systems manufactures locomotives, off-highway vehicles and wind turbines." ...

Via PA Governor Ed Rendell: GOVERNOR RENDELL SAYS 3 MANUFACTURERS INVESTING $19 MILLION TO GROW NORTHWEST PA OPERATIONS, CREATE 385 NEW JOBS

Continuous Improvement Projects: Lean Manufacturing Program ...

Lean continuous improvement projects at Bocenor improve its operational efficiency and overall outlook for future growth and profitability. ...

... "Bocenor's operating profitability improved despite lower sales, thanks to the operational and financial optimization strategy carried out in prior quarters, particularly the implementation of the Lean Manufacturing Program which considerably lowered the window and door manufacturing breakeven point, the Company’s focus on higher value-added products and less-costly-to-serve markets, the initial benefits of the recovery plan undertaken at the Ste-Marie plant in March 2006, and tight cost controls.



Management's Outlook: In recent quarters, the Company has made considerable progress in regard to the three primary objectives it has been focusing on for the past two years: improving the quality of its service, its profitability and its balance sheet. Its breakeven point has been lowered significantly thanks to the Lean Manufacturing Program, the numerous aspects of which are now being managed on a continuous improvement basis. In addition, the elimination of its long-term debt and improvement in its working capital following the sale of Multiver translated into a substantial reduction in financial expenses. In upcoming quarters, the Company's profitability should continue to be fostered by other factors, notably the recovery plan in progress at the Ste-Marie de Beauce plant, including the recent consolidation of wood preparation operations, and a further improvement in organization and operating efficiency." ...

Via Groupe Bocenor: The Company Lowers Its Breakeven Point and Intensifies Its Market Development Efforts ...

Dupont Six Sigma Productivity ...

Diane H. Gulyas, Dupont vice president, discusses growth and productivity strategies in the DuPont Performance Materials business at the Credit Suisse Chemical Industry Conference. Lean Six Sigma is accelerating the improvement of productivity. The overall marketplace requires the business to continually improve productivity and lower fixed costs. The Performance Materials division, at nearly $7 billion in revenue, is a growing and profitable segment of DuPont's overall business portfolio. ...

... "Productivity improvements have accelerated with the application of Six Sigma and lean manufacturing tools. Continual productivity improvement is integral to achieving the platform's strategy for consistent, profitable growth and in the first half of 2006 we reduced fixed cost as a percentage of sales by over 200 basis points. " ...

Via Dupont: DuPont Performance Materials Group Vice President Diane Gulyas Briefs Analysts

Lower Cost Products: Lean Manufacturing ...

Lower costs through lean is strategy at Aero-Mach ...

... "Aero-Mach is implementing lean manufacturing processes to work more efficiently and decrease man hours to lower the cost of products. " ...

Via Wichita Eagle: Aero-Mach's manufacturing thrives

SixSigma Program: Cost Impact C&D Tech ...

C&D Technologies is seeing the benefits from its Six Sigma Program ...

... "In commenting on Standby Power Division results, Dr. Graves said: The Standby Power Division executed well in the quarter, with solid revenue growth reported on both a year-over-year and sequential basis, principally driven by the benefit of pricing actions taken over the last six months. Improved sales performance combined with the favorable cost impact from our Six Sigma program and the benefit from lower lead prices, led to a strong turnaround in operating profitability in the quarter. We're seeing continued momentum in our key end markets - particularly telecommunications and UPS - and we are having increasing success bringing our industry-leading products to new international markets. " ...

Via C&D Technologies, Inc.: C&D Technologies Announces Improved Second Quarter Sequential Results ...

Lean Manufacturing Stanley Furniture Efficiency Program ...

Stanley Furniture shows reasonable results for the quarter and highlights its lean manufacturing efficiency program, which has resulted in better working capital performance and higher cash flows from inventory reductions. ...

... "We are very pleased with strong cash flow for the first half of 2006 and the progress we have made in our continuous improvement efforts using lean manufacturing principles. These efforts have already resulted in a significant decrease in inventories while improving customer service levels and we believe we are laying the ground work to further improve processes and efficiencies. " ...

Lean Manufacturing Stanley Furniture Efficiency Program: Via Stanley Furniture: Stanley Furniture Announces Second Quarter 2006 Operating Results ...

Stanley is committed to lean manufacturing as a means of continuous improvement, as shown in its first quarter earnings announcement. ...

Comments on Stanley's lean manufacturing program from its first quarter management discussion: "Recently, we began reinvigorating our continuous improvement efforts using lean manufacturing principles, to improve processes and efficiencies. Near term, as these efforts allow us to continue reducing inventories, we anticipate lower production levels and operating margins. How quickly and to what extent we are able to lower costs, improve quality and reduce inventories is difficult to project, but we are confident this will position the Company to better compete primarily as a domestic manufacturer, execute our strategy and deliver value, concluded Scheffer. "

Stanley has created a competitive advantage through its on-shore manufacturing capability. This flexible blend of manufacturing capabilities is discussed in the 2005 annual report. ...

Stanley's Blended Manufacturing Strategy: Cellular Lean Manufacturing: "Central to executing this blended strategy are our four U.S. factories – domestic manufacturing capabilities we regard not only as our core competency but also a competitive advantage. Very simply, the ability to manufacture an extensive product line – accounting for some two-thirds of our revenues – in close proximity to our U.S. customer base is critical. We don't believe supply chains, which begin on the other side of the world can match our average shipping rate: less than 14 days.

To provide our products and support this broad distribution network, we have implemented a blended operating strategy combining efficient and flexible manufacturing processes with offshore sourcing of component parts and finished goods. We incorporate selected imported component parts and finished items in our product line to lower costs, provide design flexibility and offer a better value to our customers. We emphasize continuous improvement in our manufacturing and sourcing processes to enable us to continue providing competitive advantages to our customers, such as quick delivery, reduced inventory investment, high quality and value.

These manufacturing processes produce smaller, more frequent and cost-effective runs. We focus on identifying and eliminating manufacturing bottlenecks and waste, employing statistical process control and, in turn, adjusting manufacturing schedules on a daily basis, using cellular manufacturing in the production of components and improving our relationships with suppliers by establishing primary supplier relationships. In addition, a key element of our manufacturing processes is to involve all Company personnel, from hourly associates to management, in the improvement of the manufacturing processes by encouraging and responding to ideas to improve quality and to reduce manufacturing lead times. Furthermore, each of our manufacturing facilities is focused on compatible products to improve quality and lower production costs. "

Huntsman SixSigma: Order-to-Cash Efficiency ...

... "SunGard announced that Huntsman Corporation has selected its AvantGard GETPAID Order-to-Cash solution to help improve efficiency and productivity in support of its Six Sigma initiatives. Huntsman, a global manufacturer of commodity chemicals, is integrating AvantGard GETPAID with its SAP enterprise system to help improve cash flow and reduce operating expenses. AvantGard GETPAID helps customers to improve control of financial performance and operational efficiency contributing to working capital optimization.

The Order-To-Cash process links key activities in the financial value chain, including credit analysis and approval, cash collections, dispute resolution, cash application, and financial analysis and reporting. Historically, these operations have been highly inefficient due to the lack of automated and integrated systems for Order-to-Cash management. Effective management of accounts receivable is a critical area to target for process improvements as it is a key driver of cash, cost containment and customer relationships. Business process optimization through quality initiatives such as Six Sigma can help revitalize companies and produce bottom-line results. Fine-tuning processes around the treatment of trade receivables helps yield ROI improvements as evidenced through lower DSO, reduced bad debt expense, interest expense savings and increased productivity. " ...

Huntsman SixSigma: Order-to-Cash Efficiency: Via SunGard: SunGard's AvantGard GETPAID to Help Huntsman Corporation to Manage Growth and Improve Operational Efficiency

MagnaChip Six Sigma Management System ...

Semicon manufacturer, MagnaChip, leverages Six Sigma management system to increase quality, lower costs, improve its reputation in the market. ...

... "Robert Krakauer, EVP of Strategic Operations and CFO of MagnaChip Semiconductor, said, During the quarter, we initiated a Six Sigma management system that is expected to result in improved product quality, substantial cost savings, and enhance our industry leading profile. This initiative specifically focuses on three areas within MagnaChip: Sales & marketing, Research & Development, and Production. Our Six Sigma initiatives will allow us to more effectively deliver industry-leading solutions to our consumer electronics and communications customers worldwide and place us on the same corporate development path as recognized global industry leaders. This program is not only limited to enhancing cost savings and quality but will be actively used to improve overall business management, innovation and execution. " ...

MagnaChip Six Sigma Management System: Via MagnaChip Semiconductor: MagnaChip Semiconductor Reports First Quarter Results ...



MagnaChip Semiconductor is a leading designer, developer and manufacturer of mixed-signal and digital multimedia semiconductors addressing the convergence of consumer electronics and communications devices. We focus on CMOS image sensors and flat panel display drivers, which are complex, high performance, mixed signal semiconductors that capture images and enable and enhance the features and capabilities of both small and large flat panel displays. MagnaChip also provides wafer foundry services utilizing CMOS high voltage, embedded memory, analog and power process technologies for the manufacture of IC's for customer-owned designs. MagnaChip has world-class manufacturing capabilities and an extensive portfolio of approximately 11,900 registered and pending patents. As a result, MagnaChip is a valued partner in providing leading technology solutions to its customers worldwide.

Lean SixSigma: Training in Theory Of Constraints ...

DRC will provide Theory of Constraints training to the military Lean Six Sigma program as a subcontractor. ...

... "Dynamics Research Corporation announced that it has been awarded a subcontract by Avraham Goldratt Institute (AGI) to support their newly awarded Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) contract. Under this five year ID/IQ, DRC anticipates generating between $5 million and $10 million in annual task order revenues. The contract provides for training in and implementation of Theory of Constraints and Lean/Six Sigma methodologies as applicable to the Naval Aviation Enterprise.

DRC has extensive experience with teaching and leading Lean/Six Sigma workshops as well as applying these tools through the Office of Naval Research's and the Missile Defense Agency's Lean Pathways programs. Lean/Six Sigma employs continuous process improvement methodologies to maximize weapon system readiness while minimizing material flows and in-process inventories. Lean eliminates all types of waste, while Six Sigma optimizes process variation. Together Lean/Six Sigma and the overarching Theory of Constraints allow the AGI/DRC team to understand customer needs, collect the appropriate data about the processes, and identify the root causes of problems and inefficiencies to streamline operations. The end result is a more effective, lower cost approach that achieves cost-wise readiness. " ...

Lean SixSigma: Training in Theory Of Constraints: Via Dynamics Research Corp: Dynamics Research Corporation Awarded Subcontract on Avraham Goldratt Institute's Naval Air Systems Command ID/IQ Contract: Choice of DRC confirms its significant capability in Lean/Six Sigma methodology ...

Six Sigma: Cessna Success ...

Cessna Aircraft Company leader, Jack Pelton, discusses the company's success and achievements in 2005, enabled by its Lean Six Sigma program. ...

... "He attributed the year's success to a world class Cessna team, award winning customer support, a broad product line that is responsive to the marketplace, emerging global markets, and implementation of lean manufacturing processes. During the year, Cessna delivered 249 Citation jets, 822 single engine pistons, and 86 Caravan single-engine turboprops; won FAA certification for two new jets -- the CJ1+ and CJ2+; and built its order book up to 788 jets and 1,198 single engine aircraft with a total value of $6.3 billion. The company also achieved significant refinement of its processes through implementation of the Textron Six Sigma Lean program, resulting in a more efficient, leaner company. " ...

Six Sigma: Cessna Success: Via Cessna: Remarkable Gains, Significant Achievements for Cessna in 2005 ...



Textron Six Sigma: "Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) is one of the three major elements of Textron Six Sigma, and the one that's most directly tied to meeting customer requirements. Through DFSS, we identify what our customers need and deliver it better than anyone else. It's a proven way to develop top quality products, services and processes right the first time, faster, and at a much lower cost. At Textron, we are combining the key principles of DFSS with a common method for designing all new products and services across the enterprise. "

Textron Annual Report: "The next step is Textron Six Sigma, a company-wide approach to improving our processes and delighting our customers through improved enterprise excellence. Textron's unique Six Sigma model is a comprehensive, common set of tools and techniques rigorously applied to all operating and functional areas to eliminate waste, reduce variability, and accelerate growth and innovation. While the concept of Six Sigma is not new, our unique combination of best practices and powerful methodologies into a single, holistic approach makes Textron Six Sigma the most important improvement process at Textron. "

Peter N. Riley, Senior Vice President Textron Six Sigma, Integrated Supply Chain and Transformation: "Peter N. Riley is senior vice president, Textron Six Sigma, integrated supply chain and transformation. In this role, Riley works closely with all Textron business units to continue the rapid deployment of critical enterprise-wide processes and systems to improve business performance and ensure the achievement of Textron's vision. He is also responsible for driving Textron's efforts to leverage its purchasing power and improve manufacturing processes across and among its business units. "

Software Supports Manufacturing Agility ...

Newest release of manufacturing execution software (MES) supports agile and adaptable manufacturing models where market requirements are in a constant state of change. ...

... "FlexNet is a highly pliable execution software that can be deployed stand-alone or to extend the value of an organization's ERP, CRM, PLM or other business systems. The software is both a broad strategic operations execution platform that ties together the diverse activities of a manufacturer's operations, as well as a modular suite of applications that can be deployed as needed to provide a tightly coordinated manufacturing solution. Built for Adaptability, Agility: FlexNet 9.3 has been built for adaptive manufacturing, an emerging strategy driven by operations execution systems that provide the flexibility, visibility and integration required to support constantly changing business requirements. The results are optimal efficiency, quality and responsiveness, which can translate into higher profitability and customer satisfaction. " ...

Software Supports Manufacturing Agility: Via Apriso Corporation: APRISO CORPORATION ANNOUNCES FLEXNET VERSION 9.3: Newest Version of Widely Used Software Provides Greater Manufacturing Agility, Adaptability ...

Additional resources on manufacturing agility:

Via Control Engineering - Role of Controls in Product Lifecycle Management: "Moreover, as an enabler for working collaboratively in the early stages of product development, digital manufacturing enables design and automation engineers to work together to quickly develop designs that can be manufactured most readily and economically within the available production facilities. Such integrated systems also support greater manufacturing agility, giving companies greater flexibility in changing operations according to shifting demands of competition and customer preference."

OUTLOOK 2005: Integration & Data Master: Via Managing Automation: "The goal for every commercial offering is to simplify the integration effort, lower cost and enable business and manufacturing agility. And everywhere you turn a vendor has an integrated solution sell for you. "

Via NEMI: GenRad Product Commercializes Technologies from NEMI’s Plug And Play Factory Project: "The adoption of NEMI's FIS standards could greatly reduce the amount of time it takes to integrate new equipment and software systems into the manufacturing supply chain. This capability is critical for maintaining manufacturing agility as well as for increasing the efficiency of shop floor operations, stated John Cartwright, co-chair of the NEMI FIS TIG and manager of Factory Information Systems at Intel."

Six Sigma Producitivty Increasing Value Proposition ...

Lilly drives productivity through Six Sigma, outsourcing, and hiring limits to increase its value proposition to shareholders and the Wall Street. ...

... "Lilly is utilizing several tools to increase productivity and lower its cost structure, including applying Six Sigma across its global operations, which is expected to free up resources, accelerate R&D output, enhance customer satisfaction, and improve earnings with a portion of the overall benefit; expanding the use of biomarkers to more than 90 percent of the company's clinical candidates to facilitate earlier development decisions; maintaining the July 2004 hiring limits that have already reduced headcount by 3,100 or nearly 7 percent, without using disruptive layoffs; and leveraging outsourcing when the work represents non-core business or can be done at a lower cost and similar quality. Lilly's initial efforts have resulted in productivity increasing about 15 percent in 2005 compared with 2004 as measured by adjusted operating income per Lilly employee. " ...

Six Sigma Producitivty Increasing Value Proposition: Via Eli Lilly: Lilly Tells Wall Street It's Uniquely Positioned To Deliver Sustained Growth ...

Lilly, a leading innovation-driven corporation, is developing a growing portfolio of first-in-class and best-in-class pharmaceutical products by applying the latest research from its own worldwide laboratories and from collaborations with eminent scientific organizations. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Ind., Lilly provides answers -- through medicines and information -- for some of the world's most urgent medical needs.

Healthcare Quality Program: Six Sigma ...

MedAvant develops healthcare quality program, based on Six Sigma. ...

Healthcare Quality Program: Six Sigma: Via Medavant: ProxyMed Now Doing Business as MedAvant Healthcare Solutions: Company Releases New Strategic Direction to Deliver Provider-Focused Solutions that Facilitate Real-Time Processing, Promote High Quality and Reduce the Costs of Healthcare ...

... "In addition, MedAvant will be implementing a quality program based on Six Sigma led by the black belts currently on staff. We are very excited to put these pieces together to lower the costs of healthcare for everyone and extend real-time processing capabilities to all our clients. " ...

MedAvant (NASDAQ:PILL - News) is a provider-focused healthcare technology company that delivers healthcare transaction processing, medical cost containment services and business process outsourcing solutions to physicians, payers, pharmacies, medical laboratories and other healthcare suppliers. To facilitate these services, MedAvant operates Phoenix(TM), a highly scalable and secure national information platform, which supports real-time direct connectivity and transaction processing between healthcare clients.

Lean Manufacturing Supports Earnings Increase ...

Celestica leverages lean manufacturing process to increase margins and earnings. ...

Lean Manufacturing Supports Earnings Increase: Onex Corporation today reported its consolidated financial results for the third quarter ...

... "Celestica reported that operating earnings were up $17 million to $42 million in the quarter in spite of a $445 million decline in revenues to $2.4 billion. The earnings were up due primarily to cost reductions realized from the company’s restructuring initiatives and benefits from lean manufacturing processes and exited businesses. Revenues declined primarily due to lower volumes in the Telecommunications & Enterprise markets and exited businesses. " ...

Onex Corporation is a diversified company with annual consolidated revenues of approximately $16 billion and consolidated assets of approximately $14 billion. Onex is one of Canada’s largest companies with global operations in service, manufacturing and technology industries. Its operating companies include Celestica Inc., Spirit AeroSystems, Inc., Emergency Medical Services Corporation, ClientLogic Corporation, Cineplex Entertainment Limited Partnership, J.L. French Automotive Castings, Inc., Res-Care, Inc., Cosmetic Essence, Inc., Center for Diagnostic Imaging, Inc. and Radian Communication Services Corporation.

Dell Lean Manufacturing: Continually Cutting Costs ...

Gavin Daly explores the challenges ahead for Dell manufacturing in Ireland where layoffs have reached the Irish staff and financial results are disappointing. Can Dell's lean manufacturing program continue to lower costs? Or, has the cost-cutting reached a point of diminishing returns? ...

Dell Lean Manufacturing: Continually Cutting Costs: Via The Post: Dark clouds gathering over Dell ...

... "That could have consequences for staff there, although Dell has repeatedly downplayed concerns about the future of the Limerick plant. Instead, the company cites its business model of lean manufacturing and continually cutting costs. " ...

DFMA Design For Manufacture

Via American Society of Mechanical Engineers: DFMA to RP, ASAP

Mastering DFMA, or design for manufacturing and assembly, can accelerate time to market and lower the total life cycle costs of new products and their facilities. Here are background and references on DFMA ...

... "The concept of DFMA was developed in 1980 by Geoffrey Boothroyd and Peter Dewhurst, professors of industrial and manufacturing engineering at the University of Rhode Island in Kingston. The following year, they founded Boothroyd Dewhurst Inc. to market proprietary DFMA packages. " ...

Via ACC: Acquisition Community Connection: Design for Manufacturing and Assembly ...

... "DFMA is a systematic analysis of the design of an assembly or subassembly to reduce product cost by simplifying its design, assembly, and manufacturing without impacting performance. The analysis allows you to determine the theoretical minimum number of parts that must be in the design for the product to function as required. As you identify and eliminate unnecessary parts, you eliminate unnecessary manufacturing and assembly costs. " ...

Via Army Logistics Management College: Smart Simple Design

... "The Smart Simple Design initiative encompasses two processes. The first step is using Design for Manufacture, Design for Assembly, and Design for Service (DFMAS) software in the early stages of the design process to achieve significant benefits from reducing costs and logistics support requirements. The second step of the Smart Simple Design initiative is assembling a design oversight and comparison process team to reduce the number of needed parts and standardize parts across different product lines. " ...

Via American Machinist: Technologies to reduce production costs ...

... "Companies can slash costs by improving the design process at its beginning. Design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA) software includes a design-formanufacture module, with which engineers obtain early cost estimates on parts or products, and a design-for-assembly module, which they employ to determine the best methods to manufacture products. " ...

DFMA consists of complementary Design for Assembly (DFA) and Design for Manufacture (DFM) software. Engineers use DFA software to reduce the cost of a product by consolidating parts into elegant and multifunctional designs. DFM software then helps engineers quickly judge the cost of producing the individual components of the new design. Used together, DFM and DFA software give engineers an early cost profile of product designs, providing a basis for planning and decision making. When performed in the earliest stages of concept design, DFMA analysis has the potential to dramatically reduce manufacturing and other product life-cycle costs before they are locked in. DFMA software operates in MicrosoftÒ Windows 98, Windows 2000, and Windows XP.

Boothroyd Dewhurst, Inc., is a winner of the 1991 National Medal of Technology Award, presented by President George H. Bush. Other recipients of the award have included William Gates of Microsoft Corp. and Robert Galvin of Motorola Inc. Boothroyd Dewhurst is dedicated to continually developing the DFMA knowledge base through its integrated software programs, workshops, consulting services and international conferences. For more information, contact Boothroyd Dewhurst, Inc., 138 Main Street, Wakefield, R.I. 02879, USA. Tel.

RFID Company Lean Manufacturing Value ...

RFID Company Lean Manufacturing Value: Wherenet: WHERENET SALUTED AS A HOT COMPANY BY START MAGAZINE FOR THE SECOND STRAIGHT YEAR: Inbound Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive Magazines Also Recognize WhereNet for Driving Innovation and a Strong Return on Investment for Global Customers Leveraging the Company’s Active RFID-Based Real-Time Locating System Technology ...

... "WhereNet stands out as a market leader because its active RFID technology has been commercially deployed and has delivered proven business value for more than five years, said John Buell, editor-in-chief of Start magazine. WhereNet's applications are transforming business processes and driving new lean manufacturing principles for leading manufacturers around the world. " ...

WhereNet is the first company to deliver a single wireless location and communication infrastructure that reliably and cost-effectively manages valuable mobile resources and delivers a complete return on investment within 6-12 months. Based on patented, standards-compliant technology resulting from a collective 100+ years of development, the WhereNet real-time solutions enable companies such as BMW, Ford Motor Company, and NYK Logistics to reduce inventory, lower operating costs, and improve operations. The company has received the Henry Ford Technology Award; was recognized for strong ROI by Computerworld; was ranked among the top 10 in the InfoWorld 100; and has been recognized as a wireless innovator by Forrester Research, Computerworld ROI, Frontline Solutions, Plant Engineering, and Supply Chain Systems magazines. Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, with offices throughout the United States and Europe, WhereNet is funded by Crosspoint Venture Partners, Foundation Capital, Bay Partners, Crescendo Ventures, and Sun Microsystems.

Lean Manufacturing Focus

Lean Manufacturing Focus: Methode Electronics, Inc. Reports Fiscal 2005 Fourth Quarter and Year-End Results and Declares $0.05 Quarterly Dividend ...

... "Our ongoing focus on lean manufacturing, automation, and migration to lower cost manufacturing regions has helped our automotive businesses sustain their performance in what has been a challenging year for Detroit. " ...

Methode Electronics, Inc. is a global manufacturer of component and subsystem devices. Methode designs, manufactures and markets devices employing electrical, electronic, wireless, sensing and optical technologies. Methode's components are found in the primary end markets of the automotive, communications (including information processing and storage, networking equipment, wireless and terrestrial voice/data systems), aerospace, rail and other transportation industries; and the consumer and industrial equipment markets.

Six Sigma DMAIC Training

Six Sigma DMAIC Training: Online Six Sigma Green Belt Industrial

... "The Industrial Green Belt candidate is trained to use the powerful Six Sigma process for realizing breakthrough Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control, or simply DMAIC. Through this systematic and scientific method of problem solving, the Industrial Green Belt candidate discovers how to best apply the supporting tools of Six Sigma; thereby, paving the way for short-cycle, high-yield improvements. This means that successful Industrial Green Belt candidates will be able to increase their job-related or product-related output quality and quantity in less time and at a lower total cost, thereby creating additional value. the program presents the foundational principles and core values that underpin the installation of Six Sigma, as well as the driving knowledge for identifying, selecting, initializing, executing, reporting, and validating an Industrial Six Sigma Green Belt project. " ...

Six Sigma Best Practice Methdologies ...

Six Sigma Best Practice Methdologies: NUVO extends managed IP Telephony service: Provides enterprise-class services to small-to-medium businesses

... "NUVO enables companies to operate multi-media networks and migrate from legacy PBX telephony systems to IP efficiently and cost-effectively. Key benefits to customers include: Support from certified experts, using best-practice methodologies such as ITIL, Six Sigma, and CERT; Lower total cost of ownership with improved performance and rapid application deployment. " ...

NUVO (TSX Venture Exchange: NVO) provides remote management and protection of IT infrastructures for businesses worldwide to maximize the availability of their computing infrastructure. NUVO enables our customers to excel by delivering fully integrated, proactive management services and business data. This provides the critical information needed for effective analysis and decision-making to maximize performance and control costs. NUVO achieves this through certified experts, best-of-class technology, deep integration, highly automated processes, and best practices in a 24x7, resilient infrastructure.

Applied Lean Manufacturing Principles Pays Dividends ...

Applied Lean Manufacturing Principles Pays Dividends: Wabtec Reports 54 Percent EPS Growth in Fourth Quarter, and ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... "These actions include applying traditional lean manufacturing principles, as well as pursuing lower-cost sourcing, and restructuring underperforming units ...

... Wabtec Corporation (NYSE: WAB) today reported earnings per diluted share of 20 cents, net income of $9.2 million and EBITDA of $23.5 million for the fourth quarter of 2004. In the year-ago fourth quarter, Wabtec reported earnings per diluted share of 13 cents, net income of $5.9 million and EBITDA of $19.4 million. Wabtec said the earnings increase in the fourth quarter resulted mainly from higher sales. For the full year, the company had earnings per diluted share of 71 cents, net income of $32.4 million and EBITDA of $80.8 million. During the year, the company reduced debt, net of cash, by $65 million. ...

Wabtec Corporation is one of North America's largest providers of value-added, technology-based products and services for the rail industry.

Advanced Technology Product Innovation ...

ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF RESEARCH SPILLOVERS IMPLICATIONS FOR THE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM ...

From Adam B. Jaffe, Brandeis University, and National Bureau of Economic Research write ...

... "Intellectual property protection is most successful with knowledge that can be easily described and codified. Thus patents tend to be most effective in the chemical industries, including drugs, and in some industries based on relatively simple mechanical technologies (Levin, et al, 1987). Also, patents are generally viewed as more effective at protecting product innovations than process innovations. Conversely, secrecy is most effective in protecting tacit knowledge that is difficult to codify (and hence difficult to copy), and is more useful in protecting process innovations than product innovations. First-mover advantages possessed by an innovator derive from two primary sources. First, being the first to market a new technology may allow a firm to create customer loyalty that protects profits to some degree even if other firms eventually are able to imitate the new product. Second, for production technologies where 'learning curve' effects cause production costs to fall as production experience is accumulated, the first firm to market may garner a cost advantage that is dynamically self-sustaining. That is, the first firm acquires production experience first, leading to lower cost; this lower cost allows the first-mover to maintain a large market share which serves to increase production experience and lower cost further. " ...

CGMP Regulations Product Innovation Impact ...

Federal Register Notices

... "A number of comments argued that the proposed CGMP regulation would slow product innovation and increase health care costs. FDA believes that the gains from improvements in quality control and greater efficiencies will lessen the impact on both innovation and health care costs and will not lower the innovation rate for products with significant medical benefit. Manufacturers will also avoid the costs of most design-related medical device recalls. ERG estimated that design-related recalls cost industry approximately $40 million per year. Health care spending overall will also decrease as deaths, injuries and malfunctions from medical device failures decrease." ...

Lean Manufacturing Focus Drives Strong Company Results ...

Lean Manufacturing Focus Drives Strong Results: Clorox Reports Strong Second-Quarter Results; Provides Outlook for ...

A focus on lean manufacturing enables Clorox to lower costs while delivering top-line growth improvement ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... "Our efforts to cut costs and enhance margins are evident in benefits from several areas, including our focus on lean manufacturing. ...

... The Clorox Company (NYSE:CLX)(PCX:CLX) today announced that strong sales growth, cost savings and margin-enhancing activities contributed solidly to the company's results for its fiscal second quarter, which ended Dec. 31, 2004. "We're very pleased with our second-quarter performance," said Chairman and CEO Jerry Johnston. "We saw strength across nearly every aspect of the business, and Clorox people delivered even better results than expected." Clorox's focus on its long-term strategy is reflected in the company's results, Johnston reported. "Core business strength, increased market shares and new products are helping drive top-line growth," he said. "Our efforts to cut costs and enhance margins are evident in benefits from several areas, including our focus on lean manufacturing. And importantly, we also closed our share-exchange transaction with Henkel." ...

The Clorox Company is a leading manufacturer and marketer of consumer products with fiscal year 2004 revenues of $4.3 billion. Clorox markets some of consumers' most trusted and recognized brand names, including its namesake bleach and cleaning products, Armor All(R) and STP(R) auto care products, Fresh Step(R) and Scoop Away(R) cat litters, Kingsford(R) charcoal briquets, Hidden Valley(R) and K C Masterpiece(R) dressings and sauces, Brita(R) water-filtration systems, and Glad(R) bags, wraps and containers. With 8,600 employees worldwide, the company manufactures products in 25 countries and markets them in more than 100 countries. Clorox is committed to making a positive difference in the communities where its employees work and live. Founded in 1980, The Clorox Company Foundation has awarded cash grants totaling more than $58.3 million to nonprofit organizations, schools and colleges; and in fiscal 2004 alone made product donations valued at $5 million.

Additional resources on driving results through lean manufacturing ...

MAYNARD EXCHANGE: File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat ... manage work- force performance driving results through implementing formal ... necessary to support lean operations for a large manufacturing organization. ...

EDS in the Automotive Industry: File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat ... smarts, fortitude, passion, tenacity and expertise to drive results in the ... manage costs to protect margins is through lean manufacturing, plant transformation ...

Manufacturing Engineer - BSIE/ME or EE, Six Sigma, 3-5 Years: Experience with lean manufacturing techniques and six sigma; Metals fabrication ... and implementing continuous process improvements driving results through the use ...

Lean Manufacturing Offsets Earnings Pressure ...

Lean Manufacturing Offsets Earnings Pressure: Cardinal Health Announces Second Quarter Results, Updates Fiscal ...

From Yahoo News (press release) ... Significant progress was made during the quarter to improve efficiency, including implementation of lean manufacturing processes and a restructuring of ...

... Cardinal Health, Inc. (NYSE: CAH - News), the leading provider of products and services supporting the health care industry, today announced revenue for its second quarter rose 13 percent to $18.6 billion, while earnings from continuing operations declined to $204 million and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations declined to $0.47. ...

Cardinal Health, Inc. (http://www.cardinalhealth.com) is the leading provider of products and services supporting the health care industry. Cardinal Health develops, manufactures, packages and markets products for patient care; develops drug-delivery technologies; distributes pharmaceuticals and medical, surgical and laboratory supplies; and offers consulting and other services that improve quality and efficiency in health care. Headquartered in Dublin, Ohio, Cardinal Health employs more than 55,000 people on six continents and produces annual revenues of more than $65 billion.

Additional resources on using lean manufacturing to offset earnings pressure ...

General Cable - Investor Information - News Release: Productivity and lean manufacturing as well ... metal cost increases were only partially offset by the ... will allow us to ameliorate this earnings pressure as our ...

Collins & Aikman Corp.: "To offset those costs we use the principles of lean manufacturing whereby each ... the plant reports a 27.6% increase in EBITDA (earnings before interest ...

PolyOne Corporation Investor Relations: Continuing "lean" manufacturing initiatives have resulted in lower manufacturing costs ... but have not been enough to offset the adverse earnings impact from ...

Six Sigma Cycle Time Measurement and Reduction Benchmarks in the Supply Chain ...

Six Sigma Cycle Time Measurement and Reduction: New Benchmarks for Supply Chain Centers: Driving Efficiency and ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... Drive cycle time reductions everywhere through six sigma teams and through expanded definition and use of cycle time metrics. ...

... In today's fast changing, competitive and cost-driven market, supply chain organizations have to take every opportunity to lower cycle time, reduce uncertainties and stay current with market trends. Supply chain executives need to optimize both dimensions by working closer with business units, other corporate groups, and with customers directly. A new study by Best Practices, LLC takes a data-driven look at best-in-class supply chain centers. ...

Best Practices, LLC is a research and consulting firm that works on the principle that organizations can chart a course to superior economic performance by studying the best business practices, operating tactics and winning strategies of world-class organizations. Our suite of customized Research and Consulting services is designed to assist you in improving your company's performance by analyzing the winning practices of leading corporations.

Additional resources on Six Sigma Cycle Time Measurement and Reduction ...

Existing Product or Service Improvement: A Six Sigma project was initiated to reduce cycle time. ... methodology consists of Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve ... from initiation of a Six Sigma program for ...

Performance Control and Measurement in Lean Six Sigma Environments: File Format: Microsoft Powerpoint 97 ... Reduce Variation & Batch Size. Improve Flow & Productivity. ... Addresses Cost Reduction, Alignment To Goals, Waste, Cycle Time. ... Lean Six Sigma Across the Enterprise. ...

Future Fab Intl.: the course of a (Phase I) Six-Sigma content-reduction ... influence on overall wafer build cycle time, formed the ... s = standard deviation of time t = average time. ...

Six Sigma: into subgoals such as cycle time reduction, cost reduction ... team methodically proceeds through Measurement, Analysis, Improvement ... A Six Sigma improvement team is ...

Six Sigma Auto Industry Benefits: Divergent Roads: Fitch North American Auto Suppliers Credit ...

Six Sigma Auto Industry Benefits: Divergent Roads: Fitch North American Auto Suppliers Credit ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... Many have adopted methods such as Kaizen, Kan-ban, and Six-sigma, which enable margin and cash flow to be maintained despite lower per unit revenue. ...

... Fitch Ratings expects the overall credit quality of the automotive supply industry to remain mixed in 2005. North American-based suppliers operate in a global, overcapacitized industry. However, good credit quality suppliers have been able to maintain traction from solid liquidity and cash flow generation despite the vagaries of the industry, while many others spin their wheels in the mud as strong cost and pricing headwinds offset structural cost and productivity efforts. Fitch believes supplier credit quality in 2005 could deteriorate further due to lower industry production and significant cost pressures. While an improving economy could be a plus for demand, increased incentive spending has produced disappointing sales results leading to higher inventories and production cuts. In addition, higher gasoline prices have whittled demand in some vehicle segments. With a higher level of incentive spending, automakers are likely to increase their efforts to reduce material costs, meaning higher potential for greater year-over-year supplier price reductions. ...

Lean Aerospace Initiative ...

From Lean Aerospace Initiative, Remarks By The Honorable Jacques S. Gansler, Under Secretary of Defense (Acquisition and Technology) ...

... "If we are to produce affordable systems quickly, (which is required to keep up with the new technology cycles) we clearly must pursue non-traditional approaches; such as maximum use of commercial equipment, as well as significant design process changes, and, (in the production area), use of integrated -- commercial and military -- assembly lines for defense-unique items, taking maximum advantage of the potential offered by flexible manufacturing and -- this is where you all come in -- lean design and production techniques. Reduced costs and cycle times must be based on solid, lean principles. Industry must be encouraged to step out of the box and not be afraid to propose radically different approaches for new and even existing defense programs. If we are to break out of the spiral of ever increasing costs and extended cycle times, we need to produce production programs that are not simply cast in the old mold, but are new and innovative and set a better standard for cost and cycle times. The new battle cry for industry must be: Higher Performance At Lower Cost. " ...

Lean Training: EMS Consulting Group Announces Lean Manufacturing Training Workshops in Southern California

From eMediaWire ...

... "EMS Consulting Group has announced two additional lean manufacturing workshops to be held in the Los Angeles / Orange County area in early 2005. Attendees will learn how to achieve lower costs, improved quality and productivity, reduced product development time-to-market, and increased customer satisfaction. Focusing on the principles of lean manufacturing, they are designed for business owners, presidents, controllers, plant managers, engineers, anyone responsible for cost management or the manufacturing process, as well as anyone in the organization who can benefit and apply concepts to their areas of responsibility." ...

BioInformatics Computing: IBM Introduces New BladeCenter and Business-in-a-Box Solutions ...

From Market Wire (press release) ... medium businesses. IBM additionally unveiled a BladeCenter system for the Bioinformatics sector of the Life Sciences industry. The ...

IBM makes trides in bioinformatics computing technology ...

... Furthering its leadership in the blade server market, IBM today announced a new low-cost IBM eServer BladeCenter chassis and a unique set of "business-in-a-box" solutions to help lower the cost and speed the time it takes for a small to mid-sized business to purchase, deploy, and implement BladeCenter servers in an IT infrastructure. Designed with mid-sized businesses in mind, the new entry-level BladeCenter Express model allows smaller businesses to gain access to superior IBM eServer BladeCenter technology for an extremely affordable price. ...

IBM is the world's largest information technology company, with 80 years of leadership in helping businesses innovate. Drawing on resources from across IBM and key Business Partners, IBM offers a wide range of services, solutions, financing and technologies that enable customers, large and small, to take full advantage of the new era of e-business.

Geographic Growth in Lean Manufacturing: Harbour Consulting Opens New Office to Serve Manufacturers in Asia ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... He previously was president of Productivity Inc. in Shelton, Conn., one of the leading lean manufacturing consultancies in the United States. ...

Lean manufacturing consulting is expanding globally and a presence in the Asia-Pacific region is an advantage to driving geographic growth ...

... Harbour Consulting, the leader in manufacturing productivity, quality and total cost improvement, has opened an office in Bangkok, Thailand, to expand Harbour's services in the Asia-Pacific region. Vice President Laurie Felax said the new office will enable Harbour to better serve manufacturing clients throughout Asia as well as expand Harbour's ability to track manufacturing trends in the region. ...

Since 1980, Harbour Consulting has provided manufacturing management consulting services focused on strengthening the overall competitiveness of manufacturers through improvements in quality, productivity and lower total cost. The company continues to study and service manufacturing organizations throughout the world in a variety of industries. Its annually published The Harbour Report serves as the influential scorecard for manufacturers in the automotive industry.

Healthcare Conjoint Analysis: MedPanel Offers Profiles(TM) in Oncology Study on Non-small Cell ...

From Yahoo News (press release) ... of a qualitative online discussion among ten key opinion leaders (KOLs) in lung cancer, as well as a quantitative survey and a conjoint exercise completed by ...

... MedPanel, a leader in online medical market intelligence for the life sciences industry, today announced a new syndicated study, Profiles(TM) in Advanced and Metastatic Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). This study is the second in its syndicated oncology series launched earlier this year. Profiles in Advanced and Metastatic NSCLC highlights potential opportunities for clinical and commercial advances in NSCLC drug development. These potential opportunities are identified through the insights of opinion- leading academic and clinical research specialists, as well as from responses to a custom survey from a large body of community-based oncologists. ...

... Demonstrated the use of conjoint analysis in the healthcare field.

MedPanel is the only medical market intelligence company providing custom and syndicated research to the life sciences industry exclusively online. MedPanel's powerful proprietary methodology and platform enable pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and diagnostics companies to have greater strategic control over the development and commercialization of products, and lower costs overall. Through unparalleled access to clinicians, medical thought leaders and healthcare professionals, and through its interactive, asynchronous approach to medical panels and surveys, MedPanel is able to deliver fast, unbiased, cost-effective and actionable data. MedPanel is a global organization based in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Six Sigma Benchmarks: New Benchmarks for Supply Chain Centers for Driving Efficiency and ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... Drive cycle time reductions everywhere through six sigma teams and through expanded definition and use of cycle time metrics. ...

... In today's fast changing, competitive and cost-driven market, supply chain organizations have to take every opportunity to lower cycle time, reduce uncertainties and stay current with market trends. Supply chain executives need to optimize both dimensions by working closer with business units, other corporate groups, and with customers directly. A new study by Best Practices, LLC (http://www3.best-in-class.com/cr105.htm) takes a data-driven look at best-in-class supply chains ...

Best Practices, LLC is a research and consulting firm that works on the principle that organizations can chart a course to superior economic performance by studying the best business practices, operating tactics and winning strategies of world-class organizations. Our suite of customized Research and Consulting services is designed to assist you in improving your company's performance by analyzing the winning practices of leading corporations.

Six Sigma Software: Sigmetrix To Deliver Interoperability Solutions With PTC Pro ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... companies in the manufacturing industry have used Sigmetrix software to realize significant returns on investment in the deployment of Six Sigma methodologies. ...

... Sigmetrix, LLC, a software integration and strategic software partner with PTC since 1990 and the preferred supplier of tolerance analysis software for Pro/ENGINEER customers, announced the release of CETOL 6 Sigma Version 7.1, providing interoperability with PTC's newly introduced Pro/ENGINEER(R) Wildfire(TM) 2.0. CETOL Version 7.1 has significant customer driven enhancements allowing the CETOL user to develop more comprehensive tolerance analysis models with less effort while providing greater understanding of how variation affects the key characteristics of their design. Other enhancements include Monte Carlo and derivative based solvers, comprehensive support for family tables, improved visualization in Pro/ENGINEER, real time updates to the degree of freedom state, and more user preference controls. ...

Sigmetrix, LLC is a software development company focused on providing easy-to-use assembly tolerance analysis and optimization software for mechanical engineers. Sigmetrix has been shipping CETOL 6 Sigma software to PTC customers since 1992. In 1999, PTC selected CETOL 6 Sigma for worldwide distribution as its preferred tolerance analysis solution. Many leading companies in the manufacturing industry have used Sigmetrix software to realize significant returns on investment in the deployment of Six Sigma methodologies. Sigmetrix LLC is a software development company focused on providing easy-to-use assembly tolerance analysis and optimization software for mechanical engineers. Sigmetrix is a partnership between the original creators of the CETOL 6 Sigma Tolerance Optimization System and Rand Worldwide. CETOL 6 Sigma for Pro/ENGINEER has been shipping to PTC customers since 1992 and is distributed exclusively by PTC and Rand Worldwide on a worldwide basis. More recently Sigmetrix became a Dassault Systemes Gold Software Partner and is supporting the CATIA customer base with a CETOL 6 Sigma CAA V5 Based product. Sigmetrix is continuing to develop CETOL 6 Sigma as the premier tolerance optimization software in the world today. Through the company's unique research relationship with the top universities developing complimentary technologies, like Brigham Young University's ADCATS program, as well as the strategic software development and distribution relationship with PTC, Rand Worldwide and Dassault Systemes, Sigmetrix is uniquely positioned to accelerate the implementation of CETOL 6 Sigma capability into companies using Pro/ENGINEER and CATIA around the world.

CETOL 6 Sigma is a complete mechanical variation management solution. CETOL 6 Sigma has been created to aid design engineers in performing tolerance studies and optimizing tolerance budgets. Seamlessly integrated with both Pro/ENGINEER and CATIA V5, CETOL 6 Sigma allows users to model, analyze and allocate tolerances based on product performance requirements while considering manufacturing process capabilities. The result is faster development of higher quality products, at a lower cost. CETOL 6 Sigma is the key software component for implementing Design for Manufacture, Concurrent Engineering and Six Sigma methodologies.

PTC (Nasdaq: PMTC) develops, markets, and supports software solutions that help manufacturers win with superior products. With a total commitment to product development and product lifecycle management (PLM), the Company services more than 35,000 customers worldwide. PTC is included in the S&P 500 and Russell 2000 indices.

Six Sigma Methodology: Material Support Resources Selects Ephinay to Provide Back Office ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... Through implementation of its financial process expertise and Six Sigma methodologies, Ephinay delivers to its customers lower cost, improved quality, higher ...

Ephinay provides Financial Process Outsourcing solutions to its customers utilizing its Optimized Global Service Model - a multi-shore combination with US based as well as offshore delivery. Through implementation of its financial process expertise and Six Sigma methodologies, Ephinay delivers to its customers lower cost, improved quality, higher productivity, and the opportunity for them to focus more intensely on their core competencies. Service centers are located in Phoenix and Delhi, with headquarters in Charlotte.

Lean Six Sigma: VSE Announces Enterprise Excellence(SM) Business Model

From PR Newswire (press release) ... organization's business decision processes, including its Quality Management Systems as well as the Voice of the Customer, and it implements Six Sigma and Lean ...

VSE Corporation’s approach to Enterprise Excellence builds upon Quality Management, Voice of the Customer, Six Sigma and Lean initiatives to balance and achieve effective and efficient business processes in any organization. This proven path to business process improvement, is accomplished through our unique approach, beginning with a through preliminary needs assessment to determine specific needs. VSE’s Management Sciences Division offers an experienced group of engineers, analysts and management professionals who are nationally and internationally recognized experts in product and process improvement. Management Sciences Division workshops and training are offered in two versions: Executive and Applications. Executive Workshops present a general outline of the topics and focus on the tools for managing their implementation. The Applications Workshops are designed to develop skilled practitioners. The VSE Management Sciences Division has developed a Lean Manufacturing Workshop that includes the principles of Six Sigma and the processes of Supply Chain Management. Lean Manufacturing is a proven disciplined approach to the reduction of cost and improvement in the effectiveness of manufacturing, administrative, management, and engineering processes.

Competitiveness depends on an organization's ability to provide customer satisfaction throughout the customer experience. It also means providing cost-effective products and services at a lower cost and more quickly than competitors. By combining Six Sigma and Supply Chain Management with Lean Manufacturing, a powerful tool is available that will identify opportunities for improvement, eliminate waste, maintain productivity gains, and extend the cost savings throughout the supply base. Lean Manufacturing has proven its ability to bring phenomenal cost reductions and quality improvements with essentially no major capital expenditures. Organizations that have implemented Lean Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management now dominate their competitors in terms of quality and unit cost for production. VSE’s Management Science Division provides the Lean Enterprise and Supply Chain Management Workshop that will assist organizations in the transition toward a lean approach for their production processes

Six Sigma Solutions: Visiprise Accelerates Value for Customers with Launch of ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... The result enables our customers to build upon Six Sigma and lean manufacturing programs to drive increased productivity, lower cost of quality and enhanced ...

Visiprise is the leading provider of software solutions for real-time visibility and control of manufacturing operations for discrete manufacturers in the electronics, aerospace and defense, automotive and medical devices industries. Visiprise's flagship solution, Visiprise Manufacturing is a web-based, collaborative manufacturing execution system (MES) that helps manage and track the entire production process. Visiprise Manufacturing is the industry's only independent platform technology for manufacturing execution providing scalable, integration-ready solutions for a multi-facility enterprise.

BioInformatics Computing: Apple Searches for a Few Good Clusters

From Enterprise IT Planet, CT ... The Cupertino, Calif.-based company said it will award five fully-provisioned, all-inclusive Apple Workgroup Clusters for Bioinformatics to five scientific ...

The Apple Workgroup Cluster for Bioinformatics provides a faster, easier and lower-cost path to scientific discovery. You’ll get rapid access to data analysis with minimal administrative burden in one comprehensive, industry-leading solution. The entire cluster infrastructure is based on open standards and open source. Darwin, the open source foundation for Mac OS X Server, is derived from rock solid BSD. The bioinformatics cluster relies on the well-respected Sun Grid Engine for distributed resource management.

Lean Six Sigma: Solectron "outperform"

From New Ratings ... Solectron has recently introduced the Lean Six Sigma program, aimed at reducing labor and overhead transformation costs, the analyst says. ...

We are dedicated to ensuring our customers’ products move smoothly from design to production.

Through our design for Six Sigma Lean and manufacturability services, we ensure that volume production is achieved at the lowest total cost and highest quality possible. We integrate design for Six Sigma Lean practices at the outset of product development to drive out design defects and accelerate the design cycle by eliminating processes or items that cause waste. This includes the use of components from suppliers qualified for Six Sigma Lean practices. The result is increased product quality and reduced lead times, ensuring better delivery and flexibility for our customers’ end-users.

When designing for manufacturability, we take into account all aspects important to the manufacturing process – including components, test, line layout, speed and scheduling. All of this is done to lower production costs, increase yield and ensure customer products reach the market on time and on budget.

From PDAs to complex telecommunications and wafer fabrication equipment, we can build the range of final products and subsystems our customers require. Further, backed by Six Sigma Lean quality processes, we can produce it faster, with greater flexibility, lower costs and at the highest quality possible.

We put together all the pieces that make our customers’ products a reality. We assemble and connect the printed circuit boards and backplanes that form the heart of the system. We ensure the mechanicals mesh together, and create the enclosure that protects and houses it all.

Our build-to-order and configure-to-order services assemble a product according to the needs of the individual end-customer. And we integrate the hardware and software – as well as provide functional testing and reliability analysis – to ensure it works for that end-customer right out of the box.

Across our ISO-certified network of manufacturing sites, we work with customers to develop custom assembly and test processes that will meet their specific production needs. We utilize customized manufacturing control systems to assure reliable and repeatable high-quality processes.

Solectron Corporation Fact Sheet
Headquarters Milpitas, Calif. U.S.A.
Founded 1977
Business As a leading electronics manufacturing services (EMS) company, we provide a full range of global manufacturing and integrated supply chain services to the world's premier high tech electronics companies.
Services Product Design and Launch Support
Collaborative design
Design for Six Sigma and manufacturability
Product launch
Supply chain planning
Lean Manufacturing and Fulfillment

Printed circuit board assembly and subsystem manufacturing
Systems assembly and test
Product fulfillment and logistics
Global network for lowest landed cost
After-Market Services

Repair
End-of-life support
Process loops for design and manufacturing improvement

Customers Partnerships with many of the strongest companies in high-tech electronics, including Cisco Systems, Ericsson, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Microsoft, Motorola, Nortel Networks, Sony and Sun Microsystems.
Markets Core Markets:
Communications - cellular infrastructure equipment, optical DWDM and SONET equipment, and telephone switching and PBX equipment

Computing and storage - mainframe computers, PCs and notebooks, point-of-sale systems, servers, storage systems and workstations

Networking - core and edge routers, core and edge Ethernet switches, DSL and cable broadband equipment and NICs
Strategic Growth Markets:

Automotive - ABS and airbag control modules, car audio and navigation systems, engine and ignition control modules and body electronics

Consumer products - cellular handsets, game consoles, PDAs, personal video recorders and set-top boxes

Industrial - home appliance electronic controls, process automation equipment, security control systems, semiconductor fabrication equipment controls, surveying handhelds, test and measurement instruments and ATE

Medical - X-ray equipment, ultrasound fetal monitors, MRI scanners, blood analyzers and surgical robotic systems

Stock Info Solectron is a publicly traded company on the NYSE, under the symbol SLR.
Revenue Revenues from continuing operations for fiscal year 2003, ended Aug. 31, 2003, were US$9.8 billion.
Locations Solectron spans five continents and is in more than 20 countries.
Awards Solectron has received more than 450 quality and service awards from its customers in addition to winning two Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Awards. Solectron has also recently received customer recognition for its implementation of Six Sigma Lean quality standards.
Contact Solectron Media Relations Tel: (408) 957-2772

Six Sigma Telcomm: Six Sigma Qualtec Introduces Telecommunications Practice

... Aimed at Helping Telcos Respond to Customer Demands, Streamline Business Practices

* Greater efficiencies seen as key differentiator in attracting, retaining customers over non-telco competition

* Placing customers at the center of evaluating, measuring and improving performance

PHOENIX, April 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Six Sigma Qualtec (http://www.ssqi.com), a worldwide leader in providing performance improvement training, consulting and technology solutions to corporations, today announced the introduction of its new telecommunications practice. Six Sigma Qualtec's dedicated practice, the first of its kind in the industry, is specifically designed to help traditional telecommunications providers, such as Regional Bell Operating Companies (RBOCs), wireless phone firms and competitive local-exchange carriers (CLECs), become more efficient in their operating procedures. By learning and implementing improvements such as Voice of the Customer (VOC), Business Process Management, Six Sigma, Design for Six Sigma and Lean Enterprise principles, those companies will be able to dramatically improve the way they do business thus attracting and keeping customers in this hyper-competitive industry.

Six Sigma Qualtec officials said the company's practice will initially focus on ways that telecommunications companies can align their core processes to their customers' requirements, improve performance and reduce their costs per transaction. Such customer satisfaction and cost competitiveness are the major factors in their ability to compete in today's market against non- traditional competitors, and to maintain a strong profit margin in the process.
Six Sigma Qualtec has a twenty-year long track record of helping firms successfully implement performance improvement practices leaving them with he knowledge and technology platforms to do it on their own after engagements are completed.

"By using advanced practices such as Voice of the Customer, Business Process Management, Six Sigma and Lean Enterprise principals, we will help telecom companies develop ways to increase their ability to listen to and respond to the demands of their customers, even as they lower their costs," said Zachery Brice, a Six Sigma Qualtec Managing Partner, and the head of the company's telecommunications practice. Brice, a Six Sigma Master Black Belt with more than 20 years' experience in performance improvement at companies such as MCI and GE, noted that new rules make it easier than ever for customers to switch phone service providers, especially wireless service. The rules, he said, represent the providers' toughest challenge ever.

A recent report from industry analyst Forrester Research indicates that more than half of all wireless subscribers who spend more than $40 a month on their phone bills are three times as willing to switch from their current phone company, since they can now take their existing phone number with them. Another analyst report, from the Yankee Group, indicates that carriers could spend as much as $3 billion to try and keep the effects of customer "churn" to a minimum.

Six Sigma Qualtec's new telecommunications practice focuses on specific areas of improvement, such as maximizing the customer experience by reducing service wait times, improving network quality and streamlining the cost of doing business.

"Six Sigma Qualtec has proven its ability to deliver customer results across multiple services industries, and it is uniquely positioned to help phone companies at the very time they need it most," Brice added. "They are not only competing against each other for customers; they must face competition from providers like cable companies, which have far lower costs to entry, and face less regulations. Consistently enhancing the way they do business and paying vigilant attention to the voice of their customers is at the heart of Six Sigma Qualtec's solutions and we combine them with an industry-specific focus that will obtain the results these companies need."

More information about Six Sigma Qualtec's telecommunications practice is
available by calling the company at 800.247.9871.

About Six Sigma Qualtec
Six Sigma Qualtec is a premier provider of performance improvement training, consulting and technology solutions that drive measurable financial results. Six Sigma Qualtec's methodology is an integrated deployment of training and tools for achieving breakthrough performance including dramatically reduced cycle times, defects and costs. This approach has significantly improved productivity, efficiency and customer satisfaction with clients worldwide. To learn more, call the company at (800) 247-9871, or visit its website at http://www.ssqi.com.

Sixth Sigma: Annual Forum to Reveal how Six Sigma is Revolutionizing the Healthcare Sector

NEW YORK, April 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Six Sigma made its move from
manufacturing to healthcare several years ago, and it has proven itself an
even better fit for service-intensive organizations like hospitals and health
plans. With this growing industry need in mind, Strategic Research Institute
presents the 2nd Annual Six Sigma Strategy for Healthcare forum
(http://www.srinstitute.com/ci285), April 28-29 at the Millennium Knickerbocker in
Chicago.
Participants will learn practical tips for introducing Six Sigma to their
organization, ideas on how to sell Six Sigma internally, and ample case
studies to verify Six Sigma's fit in a healthcare environment. Delegates will
witness how Six Sigma can literally change the culture of an organization.

Six Sigma is revolutionizing the healthcare sector by:

-- Improving overall quality
-- Increasing overall productivity
-- Reducing costs
-- Creating new revenue
-- Decreasing medical errors
-- Increasing patient satisfaction
-- Improving cycle-time
-- Developing staff skills
-- Applying world-class standards

Six Sigma Strategy for Healthcare will feature strategies, solutions and
best practices for successfully deploying this process into the fabric of any
healthcare organization:

-- Capturing the full potential of Six Sigma in healthcare delivery
-- Achieving greater consumer control and lower employer cost
-- Putting technology and Six Sigma methodologies into action
-- Assessing whether your organization is ready for the cultural change
dimension to Six Sigma
-- Improving performances at the front, middle and back office processes
-- Winning strategies to dramatically increase productivity by applying
Six Sigma to labor-intensive processes
-- Discussion of alternatives to start your organization's journey to Six
Sigma
-- Successful communication of Six Sigma strategy to all levels in your
organization

This event will feature Six Sigma industry leaders from:

-- University of Virginia School of Medicine
-- International Society of Six Sigma
-- Charleston Area Medical Center
-- Blood System Laboratories
-- Andell Associates
-- St. Joseph's Community Hospital
-- The Standard Register Company
-- Creative Healthcare USA
-- Mediserve Information Systems Inc.
-- North Shore Long Island Jewish Health System
-- Six Sigma Brokers

For complete conference details and to register, please visit
http://www.srinstitute.com/ci285 or call (888) 666-8514.