Situation
As FreMarq’s sales grew, so did its organization, adding more complexity to on-time deliveries, quality, and production needs. These factors are a serious threat to a growing business. “We can’t afford not to perform”, stated Todd Fredrick co-owner and founder of FreMarq Innovations. “We have talented people; we just needed a better way to execute our processes. We have had a long relationship with the MOC and the project managers. We reach out to MOC because we trust and respect their experience”.
Solution
The University of Wisconsin-Stout Manufacturing Outreach Center’s (MOC) staff listened to the management team and people on the floor. They walked the processes and sought to understand what was working, and what was not. The MOC helped identify the top issues and put together a plan to take immediate action; a high-level plan called organizational development. It had four objectives for the year, “Must dos,” as Kevin Thiel, MOC project manager described it. “We need to have some systems people can rely on; a recipe to turn things; a system that can be responsive to the business and easy to use; improve how we do work. With some collaboration and evaluation of supporting systems, an introduction to the entire staff was facilitated in an all-day simulation”, Todd stated. This simulation was based on lean manufacturing principles. “What a great way to bring in change and establish buy-in,” Todd explained. “We quickly incorporated the lessons learned from the day, and staff made systems/communication improvements. With a couple of trials, we had it working”
Result
In a matter of 4 months, the organization has realized significant improvements. “Things are much better and we are achieving our needs,” describes co-owner Renea Fredrick. “The impacts at a high level have improved our throughput time in manufacturing. We have doubled our output. The productivity and quality improvements have reduced all kinds of waste, stress, and nonsense”, Renea explains. The total impact is estimated at 100% improvement. “The responsiveness, productivity, and execution in our plant now has increased capacity”, Todd cited. “People understand their role, how they contribute, expectations, and how the team approach gives everyone more”, Renea explained.
Testimonials
“The staff and professional approach the MOC brings is second to none. My advice to small and medium sized manufacturers is to give them a call, it’s worth it.”
- Todd
“I believe in what they do and how they do it. It’s a proven resource that works to help manufactures be successful. We will always look to their knowledge and experience for improvement in our journey.“
- Renea