It's 9:30 a.m. Back in the pressroom a pressman
completes one of six jobs waiting to be run. Before going on to the next job,
he quickly scribbles some notes down on a yellow pad. Later, as he keys his
notes into the shop floor data collection computer, he makes an innocent
mistake and types “1500” sheets instead of “15000” sheets. This information
immediately circulates throughout the company's business management system,
distorting the decisions of managers and other personnel. The scheduler sees
the information and thinks the press is behind schedule. Customer service
thinks the job will deliver late. And purchasing thinks there is another
13,500 sheets in inventory available for another job.
When purchasing a business management system,
most companies, large and small, overlook the significance of the data
collection component. Shop floor data collection provides essential feedback
to the entire system and company. It is the catalyst to sharper estimates,
smoother scheduling, quicker customer response, just-in-time inventory,
increased productivity, and improved profitability. Nevertheless, owners often
cut costs when purchasing these systems.
To successfully implement data collection,
printing organizations must be willing to invest in the equipment and training
appropriate for their organization and skill set. Everyone must be willing to
learn the system and preserve its integrity. Getting staff involved in the
process from the beginning will add to the success of shop floor data
collection by producing employee "buy-in."
Organize an open forum with employees to define
the project goals, objectives, and benefits. This will improve everyone's
understanding, focus, and cooperation. Create a standard operating procedures
manual containing detailed descriptions of cost center and operation codes,
check lists, step-by-step instructions, example data collection screens and
reports, and flowcharts to eliminate data entry errors and uncertainty among
employees. |
A properly implemented shop floor data
collection system brings many lucrative benefits to the organization.
Gathering thorough and accurate data will foster the creation of estimates
that reflect actual costs and improve overall competitiveness. Timely job
status information improves customer response time. Improved inventory counts
minimize inventory investment by applying just-in-time practices.
Supplying
production managers with the latest job status and scheduling information
reduces bottlenecks, smoothes workflow, and accelerates turnaround. Accurate
production counts reduce job shortages and overruns. Reliable cost and
production data will identify what your organization does well and where you
need to improve.
An integrated business management system is
only as good as the data it is fed. A properly implemented shop floor data
collection system provides an organization with timely and accurate data,
vital to making intelligent decisions to manage the business.
Profectus, Inc,
is a national consultancy that helps printing organizations implement best business practices and maximize the value of their information technology investments.
Profectus, Inc.
Printing Industry Business Consultants
advisors@profectus.com
http://www.profectus.com/
Phone: 888-868-8662
Phone: 941-379-8700
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