Start with the longest process time. Begin by asking questions why it takes so long and where in the process can steps be taken out in order to decrease this time. Do this with each step in the process. While analyzing the process time manager's would most likely be concerned with value added activities in order to decrease the process times. Be sure to look for duplicate transactions, unnecessary steps, and anything adding little value.
Quality helps to lower cost and is one of the primary factors in the purchase making decision.
A high quality product can command a high price where a low quality product will have a less expensive price tag. Quality in manufacturing is generally measured by the number of defects compared to the output. There are three gurus of quality that will most likely be mentioned during quality discussions. They include Dr. Edward Deming , Dr. Joseph Juran and Philip Crosby . By evaluating each of these three and manager will be able to better manage and understand costs.