Three big issues with Big Data in manufacturing
There is no shortage of data in modern manufacturing companies. The problem is that much of this data is stuck in special purpose silos.
There is no shortage of data in modern manufacturing companies. The problem is that much of this data is stuck in special purpose silos.
"I just want to play with the data," That's what Al Swain, Quality Manager for Exacto, Inc., told me a few months ago as we were discussing his ERP system. Exacto is a high-precision machining company based in Northern Indiana. Exacto’s “A small company with a big-company ability,” as they say it. Al had been using GainSeeker for real-time shop floor SPC for years. He appreciates the flexibility GainSeeker provides for slicing, massaging, and analyzing data to drive improvements on the shop floor Even though GainSeeker Suite includes a comprehensive defect management system, Exacto had never implemented it because operators were already collecting scrap data in their ERP system. The ERP system needed the information to keep track of WIP, inventory, and costing.Data entry into two systems wasn't an option.
Real-time SPC software systems can drive huge returns for a manufacturing company, and a few good questions can help you build the case for executive leadership. "Begin with the end in mind" so you can chart a course for a successful system deployment.
The quality journey has three developmental stages: Guard, Guide, and Gain. The further you go on the journey, the larger the payback. GainSeeker Suite is uniquely able to support your journey across all three stages of the quality journey.
The shift to Stage 2 (Guide) requires a new mind set. We go from "Is this good enough?" to "Has anything changed? Is this process stable?"
Many organizations look for a two-year payback. A GainSeeker customer achieved his in an eighth of that time. Now, seven months into the project, he had documented an ROI of 171%.
It doesn't take a lot to imagine what an 18%+ unemployment rate does to ancillary businesses. These days you probably don't need to make a reservation at a restaurant, and my friends in plumbing and construction businesses are - well - hurting. As I've read all this coverage about our neighboring city I want to say "Yes, but..."
Over the years I've had many conversations with people who [...]