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The
customer sees improved quality and this is an obvious benefit to
both customer and supplier.
Customers
see faster response to unusual requests for customized products or
expedited delivery. They see faster and more reliable
average deliveries that make their tasks easier. Cellular
manufacturing allows manufacturers to deliver small quantities
reliably without holding large inventories. The inherent quality
improvements in a cellular layout also find their way to
appreciative customers.
When
suppliers implement Lean Manufacturing, customer response is often
the most obvious improvement. Response
refers to the time required for the manufacturer to react to
customer needs.
Fast,
reliable deliveries are a hallmark of cellular manufacturing. This
is because the reduction of queues and inventory speed products and
components through the system. When fast delivery is a requirement
for a given market, fast throughput or an extensive finished goods
stock are the only options.
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In
some markets, fast delivery is not important, but reliable delivery
is. This means that the manufacturer delivers the product
when it says it will deliver.
As
an example, a manufacturer of
large power transformers was in a market where new substations are
planned years ahead. The customers have many months to order their
transformers. Once on order, however, it is crucial that the
transformer is delivered at the appointed time. If the transformer
is not delivered on the scheduled date, construction crews wait and
the project must be re-scheduled.
 Functional
layouts tend to require large lots and infrequent deliveries or they
require extensive finished goods inventories. With
cellular layouts, it is easier and less costly to manufacture in
small, frequent lots. This usually matches customer needs more
closely.
Other
Lean Manufacturing Benefits
Material Handling
Inventory & Scheduling
Quality Benefits
Benefits for People
Customer Benefits |
