Enhancing Lean implementation by introducing a paperless process from sales through planning and production: An investigation into preparations and changes needed.

Abstract

A Lean implementation project at a well-established manufacturer of electro-mechanical products reviews the internal supply-chain and associated functions from request of quotation through delivery. During this work, it is discovered that an aging ERP system is not fully supportive to new work processes. As a result, a web-based paperless production system will be installed to enable the production planners to dynamically see capacities in various production departments and perform interactive planning for optimization of the production process. The goal is to create a better flow, improve quality, and minimize waste. Methods chosen in the action research relate to an ABC analysis of sold products and tracking the corresponding production processes to discover constraints and areas of improvement. The thesis is centered on the question on how to successfully implement a paperless production system, and it finds the answers by dissecting the pre-production and production processes, highlighting what should be adjusted prior to the implementation. The required improvements in processes will be both in the technical and human domain and are considered vital for a continuous growth and an improvement of customer support.