Flexible manufacturing strategies are incorporated by a business to make a factory capable of producing multiple products/models. This often involves automation, or robots, and can help make a factory more profitable by utilizing it more efficiently.
Flexible manufacturing is one strategy for maximizing profitability at the factory level. Other ways include lean manufacturing and Lean Six Sigma.
LEAN MANUFACTURING
Lean manufacturing is a method that is implemented to increase profits through the manufacturing process by improving efficiency. Waste is removed at all stages of production to reduce unnecessary costs while still providing a quality product.
LEAN SIX SIGMA
Lean Six Sigma is a method that combines lean manufacturing and Six Sigma, a method that focuses on reducing the number of defects. Its focus is on both quality and speed.
Both lean manufacturing and Lean Six Sigma follow the following basic guidelines:
- Review current processes
- Identify wastes/inefficiencies that can be removed
- Develop solutions to eliminate wastes
- Implement solutions
Both are ongoing processes that do not end with implementation, but require continuous review of processes and ongoing system improvements.
Flexible manufacturing, lean manufacturing and Lean Six Sigma are all effective manufacturing tactics that can work to increase a company’s bottom line profits by reducing overhead costs. Some companies turn to offshore production or outsourcing, but this is not the most efficient means. Save Your Factory is dedicated to educating companies on the negatives involved in offshoring and urges companies to keep factories in the United States. Click here for more information.
|
