In the next few segments of this blog, I will address the process of implementing a continuous business process improvement culture in manufacturing companies.
Some of you are in companies that has been on this journey of continuous improvement for years. You are already into lean manufacturing and possibly Six Sigma activities. Your company has already begun to realize the benefits and return on investment from your efforts. You may have already implemented some of the concepts that will follow, but you will learn some new ideas to support your journey of continuous improvement.
Others are in companies that have not addressed the business processes that were implemented years ago. Your company has not realized the benefits of eliminating waste. The concepts that follow can have great benefit to your company. Company management must agree that a culture of continuous business process improvement will be a key part of their business strategy.
The next few blogs will address the following topics:
- Organizing to support the culture of continuous process improvement
- Examining current processes
- Education on industry best practices
- Designing future business process
- Building the business case for process improvement projects
- Prioritizing BPI projects
As we discuss these concepts I will be specific about what this effort costs, and about the return on that investment that is possible.
In last week’s blog, ERP versus BPI was discussed. At Ultra, we believe the two concepts work together and support each other. I will discuss how and where ERP supports a continuous business process improvement culture.
Improving information business processes is a journey not a destination.