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Chicomm Blog

7 Examples of Improved Productivity and Efficiency in Manufacturing

Posted by Jill McNamara on Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Plus the Top 10 Losing Warehouse Strategies And How To Avoid Them    

 There are many types of manufacturing sectors out there, from transportation (airplanes, cars, trains, etc.) to raw materials (steel mills, rubber, etc.), but the two leading factors driving ALL manufacturing companies and warehouses is Productivity and Efficiency. From the warehouse floor to product delivery, workers need access to information in real time to help automate operations and ultimately create a seamless, error-proof work environment.

Because the production line CAN'T stop...reliable communication is critical. Here are a few scenarios where two way radios prove they're valuable place in the warehouse. (Followed by the guide for 'How to Avoid the Top 10 Losing Warehouse Strategies', as promised.)

Scenario #1:

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The network connection in a circuit board manufacturing facility is down, so the inventory room is not receiving automatic notification when they need to provide parts replenishment.

Result: The machine operators use their radios to communicate shortages as they happen, and downtime is minimized.

Scenario#2:

A major shipment is arriving late, so the manager assigns the workers to various other duties. When the shipment arrives, the manager is able to coordinate redirecting the workers to processing the shipment.

Result: Because the manager can coordinate activities over the radio, he gets a quicker response. Also, he has more flexibility with his resources.

Scenario #3:

A forklift operator working in the warehouse runs into a container that has hazardous materials, and the container starts leaking.

Result: The forklift operator notifies the shift manager, who broadcasts a message to evacuate the warehouse, then contacts the cleanup crew.

Scenario #4:

There is a shortage of manpower in a facility. The maintenance administrator needs to man the telephone but could be used to assist in assigning workers to on-demand tasks.

Result: She is manned with a headset that gives her access to both telephone and radio (and still allows her to continue her work on the computer).

Scenario#5:

One of the machines breaks down. The machine operator immediately radios for a maintenance person, giving him some details that help him bring the appropriate tools and supplies for the job.

Result: Radio allows the repairman to be located quickly and efficiently, and because he was able to get details on the job, downtime is minimized.

Scenario#6:

A bottling plant needs to increase capacity to accommodate the success of its latest soft drink. To make the processes more efficient and improve the coordination between workgroups, they have purchased portable radios.

Result: Multiple channel capability allows the work teams to organize efficiently and enables the increase capacity the plant sought.

Scenario #7:

The quality control department of a car assembly plant finds that a patch of contaminated paint is causing the cars to be produced with the incorrect finish.

Result: The paint master is summoned quickly from the dispatch center for a consultation. Although he is offsite visiting a paint manufacturer, he responds on his PR1500 portable radio through a repeater.

So, whether it's speeding up delivery or controlling costs you're looking for, seamless communication has its advantages. Motorola’s MOTOTRBO digital platform offers the best of both worlds for the manufacturer, given that it is compatible with current analog technology and also has the capability to transition to a digital system as the needs of the manufacturer dictate.

Can you think of other scenarios where two way radios benefit the manufacturing industry?

manufacturing case study motorola dealer

 

Chicago Communications is an authorized Motorola Solutions dealer that looks forward to putting our knowledge, experience and product portfolio to work for you. We take seriously the responsibility that accompanies providing equipment and service that meet the standards and demands of all users. If you have any further questions, please contact us today. To subscribe to this blog for weekly updates, click here.