From Russia: Ural Diesel Motors goes Lean

January 9, 2012 | News Lean forum
Source: Machine Engineering Portal

The top managers of the Urals Diesel Engine Plant (UDMZ, a division of  Cinara-Transport Machines) received training in the principles of doing business based on the concept of Lean Manufacturing. Specialists from Orgprom reviewed manufacturing processes, interviewed managers and line personnel, and demonstrated in practice how to eliminate non-productive losses. As an example, they analyzed the process for manufacturing a diesel generator from raw materials warehouse to finished products, and  identified opportunities to increase productivity and improve product quality without any investment.

According to UDMZ Deputy General Director for Production  Ivan Kölsch, the use of the  tools and methods  of Lean Manufacturing gives a new perspective on the organization of management, production and logistics processes in the enterprise, and lets managers see additional resources to improve effectiveness, meet consumer demand, and engage each employee in the improvement process. In the first quarter of 2012,  the company plans to analyze the manufacturing processes of two more products, and compile a list of organizational and technical changes to implement Lean Manufacturing throughout the factory.