Lean Part 6 – Continuous improvement
- 9 August, 2016
Continuous improvement is perhaps the most common and well-known term known when it comes to LEAN supply chain management. Continuous improvement is the idea that making small gains over time is better than large gains all at once. Not everyone can wake up one morning and decide to run a marathon. However almost anyone can take that first step. In supply chain/logistics nearly anyone can learn how to reduce loading/unloading times by several seconds or even a minute. If you continue to make small and incremental improvements over time, your company can drastically reduce costs and save time.
There are 4 main tools used in LEAN for continuous improvement in your supply chain:
- The problem solving Jacket
- A3 process
- Team problem solving
- Employee suggestion system.
The problem-solving jacket is a folder that outlines all the steps need to identify the source of the problem and how to correct it.
Another tool is the A3 process that displays a clear-cut diagram that discusses and shows how to fix the problem. Both the problem solving jacket and the A3 process follow the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) methodology.
The other 2 tools used are the employee suggestion system and team problem solving. This should involve employees and managers from every level of your supply chain. Continuous improvement should be deeply intertwined in the company’s culture. Every employee should be trained to identify and reduce waste. Also every worker should be devoted to sustaining and continuously improving to help the company grow. Also speak with your trucking partners and supply chain vendors. Many times they can offer suggestions, which if implemented, may lead to lower overall freight costs.
At Arab Cartage and Agent-National, being committed to continuously improving and solving problems is a big reason why we’ve been in business for over 30 years. Whether is trucking, warehousing, or finding the most cost effective and efficient way to move your product, you can be sure that Arab Cartage and Agent National is up too the task! Call us today at 800-423-0478 or email us at dispatch@ac-an.com