TAFE called in the SAGE Automation team to develop an efficient supply chain system.
After detailed analysis of the current situation, key operational improvements, including three new systems and processes were recommended to TAFE, which included:
1. Introduction of the Kanban* System to improve availability of stock in workshops and the material flow between warehouse to workshops
2. Implementation of 5S** and Visual management to eliminate time wasted in searching for tools and materials in the workshops
3. Standardisation of tools, materials, and processes
4. Re-configuration of warehouse management system and process to eliminate unnecessary stock transactions and material movements, double handling, and cost visibility
*Kanban is an inventory control system developed by Toyota in the 1940s to improve manufacturing efficiency. It is highly regarded as supporting production systems as a whole and promoting ongoing improvements.
** The 5S workplace organisation method derives from five Japanese words seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu and shitsuke, which translate to Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardise and Sustain.