JIT manufacturing should be initiated. Production should minimize batches and ultimately target one piece flow- through manufacturing. Production quantities over time intervals should be smoothed to minimize large fluctuations. Machines and fixturing should be designed to reduce output of bad parts and foolproof operations as much as possible. In addition, operations should be standardized to minimize variation in products.
Variation makes it difficult to determine the root cause of problems.
Finally, WIP should be condensed so that both the number of pieces and the physical space is minimized. Continuous improvement activities evolved from the Jump Start program to long-term partnering with suppliers. The long-term commitment involves making improvements throughout the entire plant. DaimlerChrysler helps suppliers become self-sufficient through training the trainer. An employee at the supplier is selected to learn continuous improvement methods and continue activities after the DaimlerChrysler improvement team has left.