The Presenting Problem: Management had been frustrated with the performance of Engineered Products for many years and had tried different improvement programs with little or no success. It was important for EP to perform at a substantially higher level because it represented the opportunity for future growth. (Hand Tools operates in a mature market with severe competition.)
Delta Dynamics was engaged to assist management in developing the Engineered Products business. Specific goals of the project included:
Solution Approach: It quickly became apparent that the primary problem was conceptual. EP was seen as a department, not as a distinctly different and separate business. Fundamental business differences between Tools and EP were not being recognized and managed. For example, Tools operates on a build to inventory model. Orders are filled from finished goods inventories which are replenished through an MRP (materials requirements planning) system. EP, on the other hand, is a make-to-order business where products are manufactured to exacting customer specifications and shipped immediately upon completion. These are radically different organization “architectures” and business processes.
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Magen Buterbaugh is the President & CEO at Greene Tweed. Listen to her insights on her ambition to be a lawyer and how her math teacher suggested she consider chemical engineering. Now with several accolades to her name including being honored as one of the 2020 Most Outstanding Engineering Alumnus of Penn State and a Board Member of National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) she has never looked back.