Corporation-wide variation reduction

Abstract

Abstract We illustrate the Statistical Engineering (SE) approach to the solution of large unstructured problems through some years-long experiences with improving productivity and quality using only a relatively small technical staff to elicit a major manufacturing culture change. The invention of a program for Process Variation Reduction (PVR) paralleling the SE steps of opportunity identification, problem definition, operating within the organizational context, strategy development, identification of tactics and creating sustainable solutions, enabled staff at all levels to drive down costs while improving customer satisfaction. Examples here involve advances in the food industry, but the variation reduction planning and strategies are applicable to most organizations.