"Creative" and “lean.” Do those words go together? I have been a lean practitioner for more than 20 years, and I’ve never heard the phrase “creative lean.” But don’t we love those creative solutions? Don’t we get excited when an idea comes from out in left field and it works?

Mixed-model assembly lines present numerous opportunities for manufacturers, but they also create headaches for engineers. Lean manufacturing guru, Drew Locher, offers some tips.

Manufacturers today are producing a wider range of products than ever. Life cycles are shrinking and demand for customization is increasing. As a result, assembly lines must be as flexible as possible without compromising efficiency. That’s why companies producing everything from pumps to pistols and caskets to chainsaws depend on mixed-model assembly.

Although preventive health management in businesses is an ideal tool for driving down high healthcare costs, many companies have so far neglected this important area.

Regardless of industry or product, all manufacturing organizations must continually strive to improve operational efficiency in order to remain competitive.

 Creform, the original pipe & joint material handling system helps assemblers be more productive and lower overall material handling costs by offering them a variety of unique products. 

Simulation software can help manufacturing engineers balance conflicting objectives on a mixed-model assembly line.

A new assembly line in Mobile is building A320 jetliners.

Keynote speaker says leadership by example is the key to sustaining a culture of continuous improvement.

Sensors and RFID technology can be used to error-proof automated assembly processes.