Over the years, we have collected several “Useful Links” that we incorporate into our quarterly newsletters. Our Top 5 related to manufacturing and supply chain management include: 1) Manufacturing Metrics Checklist As part of a recent metrics survey, the manufacturing metrics listed were identified as being the most utilized by discrete, process, and hybrid/batch manufacturers. From OEE to Engineering Changeover Cycle Time, the key indicators are here. 2) How Stuff is Made (Visual Encyclopedia) How Stuff Is Made (HSIM) documents the manufacturing processes, labor conditions and environmental impacts involved in the production of contemporary products. It’s an excellent resource for learning or to stimulate creativity and innovation. 3) APICS – Learn It (Supply Chain & Operations) This free app is a great way to learn more about the following supply chain management topics: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Execution and Control of Operations, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Master Planning of Resources and Strategic Management of Resources. Bonus: OpenLearn offers a free course that takes you through the manufacturing process. How are designs turned into products? What resources, materials and methods used and what set of activities that goes under the heading of ‘manufacturing’? This unit will introduce manufacturing as a system and will describe some of the many different ways of making products. We will illustrate how the required properties of the materials in a product influence the choice of manufacturing process used.How are designs turned into products? What resources, materials and methods used and what set of activities that goes under the heading of ‘manufacturing’? This unit will introduce manufacturing as a system and will describe some of the many different ways of making products. We will illustrate how the required properties of the materials in a product influence the choice of manufacturing process used. 4) 25 Lean Tools Per their recommendation: One way to start is to survey the most important lean tools, with a brief description and short explanation of how each tool can improve your manufacturing operations. If a tool captures your interest or resonates with you in some way – explore it further to decide if it is something to pursue now…or later. Many of these tools can be successfully used in isolation, which makes it much easier to get started. On the other hand, the benefits will compound as more tools are used, as they do support and reinforce each other. Bonus: The most comprehensive quality tool resource is The Quality Toolbox. 5) ThomasNet.com This online directory includes access to over 70,000 suppliers representing a wide range of industrial industries. In addition, the site offers industry-related news. Connecting buyers with suppliers across the globe and adding value with information and quality, ThomasNet.com is an invaluable resource. You’ll even find Pro QC listed under Engineering and Inspection Services. Bonus: Manufacturing.net also offers an excellent resource for related news. “Whether it’s bringing to light new regulation that might change the way you run your business, detailing broad economic trends or showcasing the latest trends in product development, Manufacturing.net has you covered.” What resources do you recommend for manufacturing and supply chain management?
