Written by Scott Czysz, IMEC Technical Specialist

Over the last couple months, I've observed a recurring theme with a few of the companies I am working with: a frustration with "them" (co-workers, factory workers, etc.) not doing what they are supposed to be doing.  As I dig deeper, I have found the problem lies within:

• Poorly designed (or never designed) processes,
• Poor or no process documentation,
• Poor or no training for the people that are doing the process every day, and, not surprisingly,
• Poor results.

Written by Scott Czysz, IMEC Technical Specialist

“10 Commandments of Facility Layout” has more punch, but when it comes to facility layout, very little is written in stone. Compromise is needed almost every step of the way; this does not mean there should not be a structured approach to facility layout and design. In fact, a structured approach is even more important when there is so much uncertainty and compromise.

The suggestions below are written with factory layout in mind - moving to a new facility, or rearranging your existing facility.  Many of these suggestions can also apply to smaller scale department or cell layout, office layout, or even the layout of your dream home or home workshop.