Agawam, MA (PRWEB) July 22, 2014 -- Lean can be defined as the continuous elimination of waste. Sound Seal has made the commitment to look at every meaningful process within their organization and initiate a Lean Transformation.
“The most amazing thing about Lean is the journey”, stated General Manager, Dave Gilbert. “Sound Seal associates are at the root of the transformation.”
The first area to receive attention was the Architectural Products Production area. This was one of the most efficient manufacturing processes at the company, however, with increased price competition and requirements for responsiveness becoming more demanding, Sound Seal knew they could not rest on their laurels.
First a team at Sound Seal completed a “Value Stream Map” to clearly separate the value added steps from the waste in their process. Then the fun started when two Kaizen events, each one-week long, were held to take action and reduce the waste. The Kaizen teams, comprised of a mix of production, office and management associates, had the green light to make any changes that eliminated waste or improved the production process.
And make changes they did!
Almost overnight, the process was modified and equipment was strategically relocated. The results included: reduction of the footprint on the factory floor by 50%, reduction in work-in-process by 75% and an increase in productivity of more than 22%.
Safety and Quality were at the forefront and both improved as a result of the changes. In addition, a Continuous Cleanliness program utilizing Lean’s 5S principles has been instituted which includes daily checklists to insure the improvements and productivity gains are sustained.
Sound Seal welcomes customer visits. If your company is embarking on a Lean Journey, Sound Seal is keen to share best practices in the spirit of eliminating waste and motivating others on their Lean Journey.
About Sound Seal
Sound Seal Inc. is a leading manufacturer of commercial and architectural acoustic noise control products offering the widest product selection in the soundproofing industry. For over 35 years Sound Seal has delivered innovative solutions and outstanding customer service through its three divisions: Industrial, Architectural and Impacta Flooring. The Industrial Division handles in-plant noise and environmental noise control, the Architectural Division handles interiors and finishes including an award winning line of WoodTrends products, and the Impacta Flooring Division handles floor underlayments. For more information please visit http://www.soundseal.com or call 1-800-569-1294.
Tony Douglas, Sound Seal, +1 413-789-1770, [email protected]
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