Continuous Improvement
Quality
In today's competitive world of manufacturing, capabilities and capacity matter. What also matters is the expertise behind the processes and how that expertise is applied on a daily basis. Perhaps most importantly, it’s the confidence customers have in our ability to meet their expectations in product quality, timeliness and service time and time again. We understand expectations and get things right the first time.
Quality is an everyday battle, which is why we continue to invest in TS-16949 and ISO-9001 certifications. Our onsite laboratory facility allows for timely root cause evaluation and strong process control. We continually test to ensure we remain above our strict standards of performance.
Kaizen Events
In 2007, Lincoln Industries held over 27 kaizen events and identified over $630,000 in savings. To drive consistency, each event is reviewed by the Continuous Improvement Team to make sure key actions have been followed through once the initial event has been completed. Eighty-four people participated in kaizen events and 20% of the people were trained in lean thinking during this year.
In 2008, Lincoln Industries held over 35 kaizen events and identified over $1,630,000 in savings. To drive consistency, each event is reviewed by the Continuous Improvement Team to make sure key actions have been followed through once the initial event has been completed. Almost 200 people participated in kaizen events and 100% of the people have been trained in lean thinking during this year.
6S Overview
Lincoln Industries’ philosophy focuses on effective workplace organization and standardized work procedures. Our 6S is based on the 5S philosophy that has been successfully implemented in organizations around the world as a way to improve efficiency and quality while also creating a safer and lower stress work environment. We specifically added a sixth S, safety, to emphasize the practices we have made to make Lincoln Industries a safe place to work.- Sort. The first S calls for the elimination of unnecessary items that have collected around work areas. As debris and unused objects build up, productivity often takes a turn for the worse. This is where a workplace sorting system can help.
- Set in Order. Now that the workplace has been sorted, it is time to implement a more comprehensive system of organization. Set In Order focuses on effective storage and organization methods, with the end goals of developing an environment that resists clutter and aids long-term productivity. Sorting should have left you with your most commonly used tools and materials….find an accessible location for them. Keeping frequently used items near you make you more productive.
- Shine. Once you have eliminated the clutter in your work area, it is important to thoroughly clean that area and the equipment in it. Leaks, squeaks and vibrations will be more easily found on clean equipment and fixed before it becomes a problem. Notice areas that attract garbage or spills and try to fix the problem.
- Standardize. Processes need to be standardized to ensure they are consistently done the right way and to remain effective. Standardization can be helped with posters, signs and labels. Standardizing work flow, organization and cleaning procedures will help to ensure that these items are done as scheduled, and done in a consistent manner.
- Sustain. This is the most difficult to implement and achieve. After the newness of the program wears off, people tend to cut corners or say “I’ll do it tomorrow.” This is where you need to take pride in the process and recognize how it helps you do a better job. Take the initiative to help others understand and maintain the program. If something is not properly labeled or organize, work with your manager/supervisor.
- Safety. The sixth “S” focuses on safety items related to the organization and cleanliness of the work environment. This includes things like clear walking paths, clean and accessible safety equipment, elimination of slip and trip hazards, elimination of line of fire hazards, making safety hazards and procedures obvious to anyone, even someone unfamiliar with the area.