Process & System Improvement
At Boston Industrial, we optimize workflow, reduce waste, and increase productivity through observation, analysis, brainstorming, design and implementation of Lean tools. Our system improvement services can include installing better workflows, improved processes, new WMS or MES systems, or specifying new material handling systems. We strive to keep things simple, flexible and efficient.
Our process improvement is driven by Lean, and we help our clients identify waste and establish a culture of continuous improvement. Our projects often emulate a Kaizen events and can often include a dynamic mix of multiple improvement – process, layouts, systems and workflow optimization.
Operational Excellence.
Data drives decisions that lead to operational excellence. At Boston Industrial we use a process-entailed Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) for collecting and standardizing data for our analytics and modeling. Operational data such as labor time studies, storage utilization, and throughput is transformed into usable information through a vetting process, ensuring accurate data that will translate into valuable statistics. Client analytics are generated to develop KPIs, identify opportunities, validate concepts and create Return-on-Investment (ROI) .
Industrial Engineering.
Our first step in every Industrial Engineering project is observation and discovery, where Boston Industrial’s consultants thoroughly investigate the current operation, leveraging internal resources to gain a full understanding. Documentation is created, reviewed and validated with the project team. Process improvement concepts are developed and brainstormed, and leading improvement ideas receive consensus with the client’s internal team. Additional data may be collected through time studies or operational data to quantify benefits. A final report is generated to document the entire process, and provide analysis, recommendations and an implementation plan.
Workflow Optimization.
Boston Industrial has over two decades of experience in workflow optimization with a diverse client base. Each project begins with an in-depth understanding of current practices and requirements. From this information, inventory management, forecasting and obsolescence issues are extracted and addressed. Opportunities for optimization quickly become apparent and quantifiable, and we introduce solutions that can include better demand forecasting tools, vendor management activities and removal of obsolete inventory.
Technology Enhancements.
Technology and efficiency improvements are interrelated, but only when approached with clear and concise methodology. We identify specific needs, select proper hardware and software, and then effectively deploy it. This process is thorough, deliberate and always with our clients’ best interests at the forefront. Boston Industrial’s technology services include:
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Detailed gap analysis
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In-depth functionality matrix able to relay specific technology needs to any vendor
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Create a plan for full scale implementations of:
- Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
- Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
- Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)
- Data Warehousing (DW) and Business Intelligence (BI) solutions
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Specify, select, and manage vendors throughout implementation