Happy Spring. We’re very much looking forward to putting the snowblowers and shovels back in hiding for a spell. Looking forward to the warmth and colors of trees and surrounding vegetation returning. Though the winter was relatively mild, it was more than long enough.
This issue of the Gateway see’s our quarterly columnist, Paul Critchley, manifesting a dialogue that showcases the principles of lean manufacturing in the organization and distribution of his daughter’s Girl Scout cookie order(s). It’s a very fun piece and the metaphor is sound. Check it out. A nice lighthearted piece to get Q2 rolling.
Here’s a taste:
“As the father of two young girls, husband to our troop’s “Cookie mom” (and pickup truck owner), I had the privilege of going to the central pickup location to pick up all of the cases of cookies our troop had sold over the past several weeks. Having partaken in previous Girl Scout- related activities, I honestly wasn’t expecting a smooth transaction (ask me about waiting in line for two hours to buy hot dogs at a Jamboree
in 90-degree weather!). Braced for the worst, I reluctantly agreed. After going through the exercise, and as a Lean guy, I must admit that I was thoroughly impressed!”
The second feature is entitled, “How Technological Advances Are Changing the Manufacturing Industry,” and is a quick overview of the recent wave of technological advances that are moving our industry forward. It was fun to research and write, and we’re sure there are pieces of it incorporated into your operative processes. Let us know which ones. Let your customers know which ones. We’d love to showcase your story and place the spotlight on what services and value you provide your industry peers and end-user customer base.
