Basic Concepts
The Traditional Approach to Productivity Improvement
Efficiency and Lean Manufacturing
Material Flow
Ergonomics
Quality
Malpractice
Automation
Additional Considerations for the Cross-Functional Approach
Effects of Purchasing Activities
Contract Review Technique
Internal Audits
Measuring Systems
Design Verification and Validation Activities
Effects of the Facility
Effects of Preventive Maintenance
Productivity and Human Resources
Policies and Procedures
Training
Compensation and Literacy Levels Workload
Employee Evaluation
Productivity and Your Quality Management System
Quality Management System Issues
Calibration Issues
Sampling
Lack of Follow-Up on Corrective and Preventive
Actions
Productive Manufacturing
Effective versus Ineffective Statistical Process Control
Determining When and Where to Do SPC
Control Plans and PFMEAs
Starting SPC
Selecting SPC Personnel
When SPC Calls for Action
Handling, Storage, Packaging, and Preservation
Tooling and Equipment
Waste Prevention
Support Activities Wastes
Productivity and Motivation
Goal Setting
Reliability of the Process and Manufacturing Equipment
Implementing Cross-Functional Productivity Improvement
Overcoming Resistance to Change
Glossary
Recommended Readings
Index
Biography
Ronald Blank, PhD, has worked in the automotive industry for 15 years and in aerospace for 12 years in addition to his years of experience as an industrial consultant for quality and productivity improvement. He holds a bachelor’s degree and a doctor of engineering degree with a specialization in engineering management and quality control. Ronald Blank is the author of several books and technical papers on such topics as productivity improvement, reliability, internal quality auditing, and statistics. He has been a member of the American Society for Quality since 1980 and served on the executive board of the Hartford chapter. He lives in Middletown, Connecticut, where he works for an international engineering firm in the aerospace industry.
