New products have been introduced that maximize differentiation in the marketplace while minimizing the impact on the plant floor. Although many technologies are computer-based, many critical ones are not. For example, lean manufacturing fundamentals are still key to reducing factory waste and controlling cost. Standardized work and common processes are instrumental. Similarly, quality initiatives such as Six Sigma are targeting high-impact sources, while avoiding nuisance distractions.
Communication also plays a critical role, particularly during new process launch.
Conference panelists will present examples of many of these strategies and technologies, and speak firsthand about their results. They will discuss the interaction between these practices, and generally how they fit, as a whole, into their company s strategic framework.