Renova Technology recently hosted a special event called, Lean Breakfast with Partnership
Gwinnett. The event is for a group called the LEAN Breakfast Club, which focuses on
manufacturing and supply chain companies in Gwinnett County. They talk about LEAN
Principles. If you missed the event, we wrote down the important stuff so you can learn about
how Renova uses lean methods and ways to always get better at fixing things.
Here are just a few of the processes Renova followed along the way:
Why Lean?
As a repair and supply chain services company, Renova Technology serves a large portfolio of
manufacturers across many industries (like healthcare, parking, self-service kiosk, point of sale,
public safety- to name a few). When a large Fortune 500 OEM came to Renova, they were
looking for specific processes to help streamline their repairs and develop an on-going
relationship. Naturally, LEAN processes helped Renova improve processes across the industries
they serve.
Adopting LEAN Processes
Sometimes you have to bring in outside help to get the process going. Utilizing the insights from
lean experts can significantly accelerate the adoption of best practices and streamline operational
workflows. In the this case, Renova, engaged a 3rd party consultant to help assist. This would
ultimately lay the foundation for future repair processes at Renova and lay the ground work for
Renova's continuous improvement programs (CIP).
Assessing the Good
Renova assessed the best of Six Sigma, Lean, 5S, and TPS (Toyota Production Systems). As a
repair provider, with volume repairs every month and a variety of makes/models. Renova pulled
together the best to adopt and merry together to streamline efforts. Given Renova is not a
manufacturer, different customer repair requirements dictated different processes. A CIP or
continuous improvement program helped Renova Technology identify appropriate LEAN
foundation for repairs processing. Furthermore, by implementing a DMAIC Process, Renova
could continually measure and refine processes.
Maximizing Efficiency
Renova used data to modify repair profiles. Through data, Renova could create an operational
flow with TACT time measurements and spaghetti diagram. Overall, this helped increase
throughput through targeted diagnostics and labor allocation. Furthermore, improved quality
output with enhanced data analytics and once again helped shape DMAIC processes.
Improving Quality Through Iterative Design Process
How does printed circuit board repairs help shape future designs? Renova introduced Renova
360, which basically means coming full circle and "Getting The Data Back To OEM" The
introduction of Renova 360 and its emphasis on collaboration with OEMs provide an excellent
example of how knowledge transfer and cross-functional teamwork can lead to significant
improvements in product quality and process efficiency. This approach highlights the importance
of communication and collaboration skills in a lean management context.
Continuous Improvement as an Educational Tool
The implementation of a Continuous Improvement Program (CIP) and DMAIC Process
demonstrates an effective cycle of learning, applying, monitoring, and refining. This iterative
process not only enhances operational efficiency but also fosters a culture of perpetual learning
and problem-solving among employees.
Collaborate with OEMs Quality & Engineering Teams
Renova was able to help Identify root-cause-of-failure & make recommendations. This symbiotic
relationship not only streamlined the repair process but significantly reduced turnaround times,
resulting in higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Rinse and Repeat
The steps represent a subset of the playbook we typically adhere to for new projects and
engagements with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). It’s a cyclical process that
ultimately leads to a collaborative and partnership-driven approach.
While we pride ourselves on our efficiency, we remain committed to fostering collaboration and
strong partnerships.
To Learn more about our repair and supply chain services, simply get in touch.
