The term “visual factory” refers to an approach to Lean Manufacturing processes based on providing visual information throughout the workplace. A visual factory uses a system of communication tools to share information at the time and place it is needed.
The Performance Excellence Network is pleased to welcome Jim Gersten, Quality Manager at Kato Engineering, to our November 27 Mankato Area PEN breakfast discussion: “Using Metrics & KPIs at Kato Engineering.”
Kato Engineering (Nidec) uses several approaches to measure and monitor performance metrics in real time. By using what they call “War Room Metric Boards” to review metrics daily, Kato keeps all departments in alignment to the corporate goals and K.P.I.’s (Key Performance Indexes). Jim will share how War Room metrics establish daily stand up meetings along with Gemba walks to keep the management team focused on what is important. Floor metric boards allow all employees to participate daily in the improvement actions and feed the War Room plant metrics. Jim’s insights can apply to any industry or work sector to help keep employees aligned to their department goals and company objectives.
The discussion will be hosted by South Central College in North Mankato. Continental breakfast will be served from 7:30 to 8:00 with the discussion from 8:00 to 9:00 am. For a limited time, Mankato Area PEN breakfasts are offered at NO COST for members or non-members!!
So come try out the forum – learn practices that can improve your organization’s performance and network with local leaders and professionals who are passionate about excellence!
Biography
Jim Gertsen is the Quality Manager at Kato Engineering and has over 35 years’ experience in Quality Assurance and continuous improvement working for several major automotive and aerospace companies. Jim will share the visual aid tools he is implementing at Kato Engineering based on his experience using these tools at previous companies over the years. Jim spent the last six years working for a local company in Waseca implementing the Shingo Prize (behavioral based lean/continuous improvement techniques).
