Whether production numbers aren’t where you want, or you simply wish to create a happier, higher-yielding workplace, there are many options at your disposal. Review some of the top strategies for improving factory efficiency below to get more out of each workday. Depending on the changes you need to make, consider hiring an industrial engineering firm to assist you with factory optimization.

How to Improve Factory Productivity

1. Consider Current Processes

Work with your industrial engineering team, if applicable, to review your current workflow system. Identify areas requiring improvements, such as machinery that needs repair or replacement, employees whose skills and experience should be used elsewhere, or metal scraps that increase waste management costs instead of getting resold and subsequently reused.

2. Improve Employee Training & Continuing Education

Determine what needs improvement in your training processes to help employees work as efficiently as possible. Lack of sufficient training results in questions, mistakes, and delays that can potentially halt production. Also, consider continuing education programs—if they are not already in place—to keep employees up to date on the latest technologies, equipment usage and maintenance, and workflow strategies.

3. Organize Work Areas

Walk around your factory to perform a work area audit. Take photos of spaces where you need more shelves, hooks, and other storage utilities that make hand tools and other equipment readily accessible and safely stored. Also, look into storage options for documents and other essential materials to reduce the time spent looking for items or tools.

4. Keep Up With Maintenance

Maintain your equipment, tools, and utility systems to increase efficiency. Machines that do not receive routine lubrication or cleaning, for example, wear out faster and may not produce results at the desired rate because they are under stress. Malfunctions, such as failing heating systems or power outages, also interfere with production because employees are uncomfortable or unsafe.

5. Update Factory Technology

See what technologies can be improved by switching to the latest automated software or utilizing the Internet of Things (IoT). Such changes can enhance business aspects like payroll, scheduling, and supply chain management. New technologies work faster with lower error rates to increase factory production times.

 

The industrial engineering experts at CDA Engineering are here to help streamline factory processes so you enjoy a more efficient business. Based in Troy, MI, this company specializes in production management and offers a variety of related services, including electrical and design engineering services. Call (248) 589-3300 to schedule a consultation, or review past projects online.