management system indicated that full implementation would result in reduced WIP
variability,
improved
FIFO
compliance, and a decrease in rework. Additionally, the new system improved coordination
among
workers
from
different shifts. Along with other solutions, such as implementing redesigned carts to improve
ergonomics
and
staging
compliance, and developing visual cues and labeling to improve production flow tracking, the team was able to reduce rework
and
labor
waste,
improve
operational control, and achieve greater flexibility
through
scenario-based
planning. The team also developed a discrete-event simulation model to enable Medtronic to test
production
scenarios,
including
varying cycle times, staffing levels, and throughput targets. Ultimately, the team found that adding a centrifuge to the production line would have the most positive impact on product flow and WIP. The model was developed as a hybrid solution
leveraging
both
Simio
(a
simulation software program) and Excel VBA platforms, so that Medtronic can continue to utilize it in future work. Through their work with Medtronic, the seniors learned the importance of early problem
definition,
stakeholder
engagement, and expectation alignment, as
well
as
improvements
testing
small,
iterative
to
achieve
greater
outcomes. The team came away with a better
understanding
of
one
of
Minnesota’s most well-known companies, as well as an understanding of building buy-in
and
delivering
practical,
sustainable solutions.
Industrial and Systems Engineering