World Class Manufacturing: The Lessons of Simplicity Applied

Richard J. Schonberger, author of the critically acclaimed book, Japanese Manufacturing Techniques, which revolutionized American manufacturing theory and practices, now examines how world-class manufacturing techniques can be implemented by American corporations. This 1986 classic remains valuable, since manufacturing changes do not happen overnight, and plenty of companies are far from world-class in their approach to efficiency and productivity. Schonberger writes clearly, authoritatively and often amusingly, covering every element of world-class manufacturing in detail. We at getAbstract recommend this book for everyone involved in the manufacturing process, not just mangers and executives, but all employees who seek a context and a future for their work.

I must say that I first read this because I had to, but onceI did it (really, now) changed my outlook on production. The author details not only the whys of good manufacturing practice, but also the hows and then goes into many case studies to demonstrate that he's not just blowing smoke from his ivory tower. Even better, the stuff works! One division of my company got hooked on the "World Class" bandwagon before it came into vogue. I went to tour their facility and I swore I had walked into Schonberger's book. Anyway, applied correctly, this book can turn your systems upside down and make you more profitable than you can almost imagine (inventory turns over 100? Believe it!). The best thing is that all this happens by developing employees and truly giving the line responsibility for production to the individual line workers. Tough stuff for most companies to even consider, and perhaps my only criticism of the book is that the author doesn't give an accurate picture of how long a transition from "traditional" management to World Class Mfg can require. Our facility worked for six years to get it right, which is actually very good for this transition (he says allow for a 10 year plan in his 1996 sequel, also excellent). Anyway, I'm putting theory into practice in my own mfg line, and thankfully I have this book to guide me. I'm buying copies for everyone in my production team and we'll "go back to school," so to speak. Wish me luck.