What We’ve Been Up To...

• Completed current state Value Stream Maps (VSM) for one company and analyzed the processes to identify best practices, non-valued added activities, gaps and deficiencies. The analysis will be used to develop a future state VSM for standardizing processes.
• Conducted a four-hour Lean Thinking training session for 6 employees and then conducted a three-day “Order to Delivery” value stream mapping event on a major product family. It is anticipated that when implemented, the plan will result in a significant reduction in lead times, inventory, and floor space, and an increase in productivity.
• Conducted Training-Within-Industry (TWI) Job Relations training at one company to assist their supervisors with improving employee relations and handling change and conflict.
• Conducted Basic Project Management training at a company to educate key personnel on the use of tools and techniques for initiating, planning, executing, and controlling service-based projects.
• Presented ISO 9001:2008 briefings to management and general workforce of a company who has made the decision to pursue certification. Began development of operating procedures which will form the basis for their 2nd level documentation.
• At company request, participated in a two-day ISO 9001:2008 re-certification audit.
• Performed AS9100 Rev C internal audits at two clients who have achieved certification
• Assisted a company in conceptualizing a strategic business partnership that was key in business expansion, created a plan to articulate key points, and mentored them in negotiating a successful partnership.
• Assisted an inventor of patented medical devices in business plan development, applying for grant assistance, obtaining assistance from NIH, market identification and development, partnering with manufacturers, and will continue into implementation phase.
• Provided advice to inventors and would-be entrepreneurs during a multi-day workshop for pre-seed companies. Assisted teams in creating pragmatic assessments of the viability of six entrepreneurs’ business plans, including market research, financial projects, and likelihood of attracting venture capital.
• Met one-on-one with multiple high-tech entrepreneurs to provide start-up advice and recommendations on a variety of subjects, including technical assessment of envisioned product/ service, sources of funding, intellectual property, market research and idea viability, professional service providers, etc.