"You can't manage what you don't measure." - W. Edward Deming
W. Edward Deming was a visionary when it comes to LEAN principles and continuous improvement. And he was correct, there can be no continuous improvement if we do not measure! IPI is focusing efforts to implement Lean Manufacturing in ALL of its operations for 3 main reasons.
- To provide a safer more efficient work place for everyone.
- To develop skills and provide learning opportunities and an environment to share ideas for all.
- To become a better supplier for our customers.
IPI last blogged on the roll-out of the Prison Industries Manufacturing System (PIMS) in February 2016.
The next step in IPI’s lean journey was to implement metrics boards in each shop and work area that will be reviewed daily by the team. The metric boards visually show at a glance how each team is supporting IPI’s overall goals in the following categories:
- Safety
- Quality
- Delivery
- Cost
- People Engagement
We are scheduled to complete the training for implementation of these metric boards to all staff and incarcerated individuals by April 1, 2016. While management identified the goal categories, staff and incarcerated individuals are responsible for developing their area's goals in each category. Boards are currently being installed throughout IPI from the shop floors to the sales office.
The metrics boards are reviewed and updated daily in each area; anytime a goal is not met, action must be taken. The team must develop a countermeasure plan. Leadership has began regularly scheduled reviews to make sure everyone has the resources they need to get a little bit better every day!