America's manufacturing industry is a powerful engine driving the nation's economy, making up 11% of employment and 12% of the US gross domestic product (GDP) in 2005. In the past decade, the industry contributed 22% of the country's economic growth, or 28% with the addition of software production.
During this growth period, the sector has confronted a variety of challenges that have increased costs and reduced margins. Increased costs for oil, natural gas, steel, and copper, just to name a few, that have not been equally offset by pricing increases. Plus, investments and focus on aftermarket service have increased due to customer reluctance to purchase new equipment.
The industrial manufacturing sector is large and diverse, but most companies face similar challenges. To expand product lines or geographical reach, some companies are seeking acquisition candidates, while others are looking to divest underperforming units. Calls for corporate accountability and new regulations have necessitated new internal controls and management certifications. Meanwhile, industrial manufacturing companies are trying to figure out how to get the most out of their IT and human capital investments.
Thomas Group helped a major manufacturer of imaging components and systems improve its manufacturing loading and productivity, increase warehouse coordination and efficiency, reduce inventory, and decrease logistics costs. As a senior executive for the company said, "Excellent methodology. They have the courage to tell us what we need to hear versus what’s politically correct. Thomas Group was committed to our success.”
Our commitment helped our client achieve:
Thomas Group’s roots are firmly planted in manufacturing. In fact, our First Pass Yield (quality) and Total Cycle Time® (speed) process management concepts were born out the work we performed in the emerging semiconductor industry nearly 30 years ago. Since that time we have helped many clients improve their manufacturing capabilities and become industry leaders.
Thomas Group clients achieve high levels of success because we focus on the root causes that prevent businesses from achieving success. We help our clients understand functional interdependencies, organize with a single-minded purpose, recognize the importance of individual contributions, and finally, implement an action plan that changes performance and positively impacts the bottom line. In fact, our Process Value Management methodology is a foundational imperative for effective implementation of other improvement/management concepts such as Total Quality Management (TQM), Kaizen, Six Sigma, and Lean Manufacturing.
Go ahead, imagine our results in the context of your operation and imagine how Thomas Group can help you.