Kirolite
Kirolite was established in 1942. The company designs and produces customised and production components for a number of industries including marine, construction and furniture. The aim of the project was to identify a production system that could be implemented in the new factory to improve productivity and schedule adherence.
Background
Kirolite was established in 1942. The company designs and produces customised and production components for a number of industries including marine, construction and furniture. It specialises in solid hardwoods and timber laminating, with an on-site spray finishing facility which allows control of every aspect from design through to the finished product.
Scope
The company has grown rapidly in recent years and is about to relocate to new, larger premises. The aim of the project was to identify a production system that could be implemented in the new factory to improve productivity and schedule adherence. This system needed to reflect that the customer base requires output of kits of a large number or diverse components, in addition to one-off items.
Method
The team leaders worked with the SWMAS specialist to map the current production system and then design a future state. A plan to move to the future state was identified and the programme of change started. There was also work with the owners and management team to introduce improved controls for the production process, including performance measures.
Results
A scheduling method has been implemented, managed through daily production meetings. Key performance indicators have been identified and these are monitored and managed through a weekly management meeting.
A new process has been designed that will be implemented following the factory move.
Further Actions
The company will undertake the Strategic Management Programme in July 2008, this will ensure that the company has the systems and infrastructure needed to support the next stage of growth.
Customer Feedback
The company has benefited greatly from the MAS experience. The employees have been able to contribute ideas on how we manufacture. Although the biggest changes will not be implemented until our move to larger premises in the next 3 months, we have made a lot of smaller changes that have enabled us to erode our back log and be on time with new orders. The best bit is we have all contributed to this.
