Duncan Print Group Completes Initial Lean Exercise

For the past few months the company has been running several lean manufacturing initiatives to improve the performance of the administration and production functions of the company. We have used the services of an external “Black-belt” consultant, Dr Paul Castle of HSQS Solutions, to moderate the process.

In the production office the change has been stark, with a good clear out and improved processes allowing more and faster turnround of estimates and the introduction of a fully electronic work ticket eliminating the need for printed job instructions. Using our MIS across all aspects of the business will bring significant benefits in ensuring everyone has access to accurate information in real time.

In printing we are carefully examining press set up and make-ready to reduce the time and waste involved in a new job. All aspects of non-productive, non-value adding tasks are being attacked to improve the efficiency of the whole operation. Several procedures have been improved and a number of visitors to the factory have commented on the tidiness and layout of the printing shop. The other major benefit has been more involvement for employees with the opportunity for them to participate in the operation of the company. A real win-win situation for operators, management and most importantly, the customers. As a result of our experience we will roll out the techniques further across all departments of the Duncan Print Group as part of our continual improvement culture.

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