Blog
Insights on production scheduling, lean manufacturing, and manufacturing software from 35+ years of industry experience.
Planning and scheduling practice that applies whichever system you run.
Lean Manufacturing for Small Manufacturers: A Practical Guide
Implement lean manufacturing in your small or mid-size shop without consultants or big budgets. Prioritized roadmap, quick wins, and tools that fit 20-200 person operations.
OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness): Formula, Calculation, and Improvement
Master OEE calculation with the complete formula, worked examples, benchmarks, and strategies to improve availability, performance, and quality in manufacturing.
Poka-Yoke in Manufacturing: 3 Types, Examples and Solutions
Poka-yoke (error proofing) makes mistakes impossible or instantly visible. The 3 types (contact, fixed-value, motion-step), examples and how to use them.
Six Sigma in Manufacturing: DMAIC, Tools, and Real-World Applications
Apply Six Sigma methodology in manufacturing using DMAIC, statistical tools, and process control. Learn the difference between Six Sigma and lean, plus when to combine them.
SMED (Single-Minute Exchange of Die): Quick Changeover Guide
Reduce manufacturing changeover times by 50-75% with SMED methodology. Step-by-step implementation with real examples, video analysis tips, and scheduling integration.
Standard Work in Manufacturing: Building the Foundation for Improvement
Create standard work documents that stabilize processes, reduce variation, and enable continuous improvement. Covers the three elements, templates, and implementation steps.
Total Productive Maintenance (TPM): The Complete Manufacturing Guide
Implement TPM to eliminate breakdowns, reduce unplanned downtime, and improve OEE. Covers the 8 TPM pillars, autonomous maintenance, and real-world results.
Value Stream Mapping: A Complete Guide for Manufacturers
Learn value stream mapping step by step. Draw current and future state maps, identify waste, calculate takt time, and improve material and information flow in your factory.
Best MRP Software for Small Manufacturers in 2026
Compare the best MRP software for small manufacturers in 2026. Detailed reviews of pricing, features, ease of use, and implementation timelines to help you choose the right MRP system.
Bill of Materials (BOM) Guide: Types, Structure & Best Practices
Complete guide to bills of materials in manufacturing. Learn BOM types, single vs multi-level structures, BOM accuracy best practices, and how BOMs drive MRP and production planning.
Closed-Loop MRP: How Feedback Transforms Material Planning
Learn how closed-loop MRP connects planning with shop floor execution. Understand the feedback mechanisms, capacity validation, and continuous improvement cycle that make MRP effective.
18 Common MRP Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
Avoid the most common MRP mistakes that cause stockouts, excess inventory, and planning failures. Practical fixes for data accuracy, parameter settings, process discipline, and system configuration issues.