Value Streams: |
VS3: Adopting Problem Solving and Lean Transformation Strategies and Methodologies |
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nu Intermediate/Advanced |
Company: |
Herman Miller, Inc.
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Speaker: |
Matt Long,
Director of Continuous Improvement
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Title: |
What were you thinking?...
Developing deeper thinking about the tools of TPS
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Presentation Abstract: |
Herman Miller, like many companies, initially focused on the urgent implementation of the technical tools of TPS (flow, pull, standardized work, etc.) to get results. But improvements were difficult to sustain and in some cases, they actually made the work more difficult. They learned the hard way that it was the thinking behind the tools that was important. The guiding philosopuies behind the tools of TPS are designed to help make problems visible. These tools should be applied and responded to very carefully.
This presentation will describe how Herman Miller applies and connects several tools such as Policy Deployment, A3 Thinking, Root Cause Problem Solving, and PDCA to make problems visible and stay aligned with the philosophies and business needs. It will also cover the changes this has driven in the organizational structure of Herman Miller and the way they develop their people. Results are illustrated in case studies from two recent value streams. |
About the Company: |
Herman Miller, Inc. creates great places to work through the design, manufacture, and distribution of furnishings, interior products, and related services. Through problem-solving research and design, the company seeks to develop innovative solutions to real needs in working, healing, learning, and living environments.
Manufacturing and distribution facilities are located in the United States in Atlanta, Georgia; Lake Mills, Wisconsin; Holland, Zeeland, and Spring Lake, Michigan; as well as in China, Italy, and the United Kingdom. The company sells its products and services through a substantial, global dealer network of independent and company-owned businesses, including specialized Herman Miller Workplace Resource and Office Pavilion dealerships. |
Speaker Biography: |
Matt Long, Director of Continuous Improvement
Matt Long currently leads a group of 24 managers/coaches responsible for fostering the implementation of the Herman Miller Production System (HMPS), their adaptation of the Toyota Production System, within Suppliers, Operations, Distribution and business processes. This production system has transformed Herman Miller, a company already known for its design and participative environment, into an organization of operational excellence.
Matt has been involved with the HMPS transformation from its beginning in 1996. He continues to be a student of TPS, receiving guidance from the Toyota Supplier Support Center. His previous role was Manufacturing Engineering and Tooling Manager for Herman Miller’s Integrated Metal Technology site. Prior to Herman Miller, Matt worked as a Manufacturing Engineer and Machine Designer in the OEM, Automotive, and Aerospace industries. |
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