Leeds panel processor VC Industries Ltd (VCi) opened its doors to six other manufacturers to demonstrate how it has combined lean manufacturing with improved information and communication technologies.
The “inside industry” programme was sponsored by the Manufacturing Advisory Service and allowed other companies from the Yorkshire and Humber region to benchmark their performance.
VCi’s bespoke software system has been developed to work via its existing web browser and works with the company’s existing Exchequer operating system. Every panel produced has a bill of material, a preferred product route and a panel specific drawing.
“Representatives on the visit were able to see the next phase in the development of our software system – implementation of shop floor data collection,” said VCi director Pauline Vernon.
Each panel has an individual bar code which is scanned as the panel moves through the factory.
VCi processes MFC and MDF panel products, supplying the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and office furniture manufacturing industry.
