MPI Pursues Perfection – Implements Highly Regarded Quality Improvement Programs

MPI Pursues Perfection – Implements Highly Regarded Quality Improvement Programs
Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing Focuses on Continuous Quality Improvement

September 2, 2011

MPI Inc. the worldwide leader in wax-room equipment is upping the ante on quality in every area of their organization. Already renowned for their quality and service levels, MPI is implementing the highly regarded Six Sigma program and Lean Manufacturing being used by many Fortune 500 companies around the world. Six Sigma uses a system of measurable improvements to a company’s practices and processes to reach the highest and most consistent levels of service and customer satisfaction.

MPI couldn’t ask for a more qualified executive to lead the charge. They recently hired Jeff Rich as Vice-President and General Manager. Jeff comes to MPI with impressive credentials, having been a certified Master Black Belt Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing leader at both General Electric Company and Textron, Inc.

MPI’s quality program will feature three avenues to continuous improvement, with the initial focus being on “Lean,” (short for lean manufacturing). Lean Manufacturing streamlines processes and eliminates waste while focusing on customer satisfaction. In all, a dozen Lean projects are either completed or underway, ranging from reorganizing the facility layout to developing more effective testing procedures. “What we are doing here is creating processes that are so robust that every time we do something, we get the same high-quality results, whether it’s building a component, interfacing a machine or delivering spare parts to a customer,” said Rich.

MPI started integrating Lean Manufacturing into the organization in early 2011. “Upon my arrival at MPI, I could clearly see an organization that has embraced Lean… now my goal is to take it to another level,” said Rich. MPI has assembled a team of cross-functional employees from engineering, shop, inventory management and office personnel that meet on a regular basis to discuss lean initiatives and to execute lean projects.

Every process in the organization is being evaluated so that “standard work” practices can be put in place. The needs of the customer are what are driving the manufacturing operation. “Our goal is to insure that the job is done perfectly and on time, every time,” said Rich. By implementing a culture of continuous quality improvement, our efforts will significantly benefit both our customers and our company.