FPS (Ford Production System) is calling 2014 the “Year of Traction.” So what does this actually mean and how will it affect you in terms of our daily operations?
“Year of Traction” simply refers to the global implementation of FPS. In 2012, the plan was laid out, and in 2013, we started the implementation process. This year, full implementation of FPS will be completed at Rawsonville, which will then allow us to gain traction, then build momentum. Currently, FPS is 74 percent implemented at Rawsonville. There are six (6) key phases to this process.
FPS phases and current status of implementation at RCP:
- Strategic Planning – Phase A: 100%
- Time and Data Management – Phase B: 97%
- Standards (Standard is the Standard) – Phase C: 89%
- Issue Management – Phase D: 75%
- Process Confirmation – Phase E: 24%
- Continuous Improvement – Phase F: 22%
In 2014, we need 100 percent implementation of all six of these phases. This doesn’t mean that we have to grasp every aspect, nuance, and detail of each phase. Instead, it means that we will apply each element of each phase and can begin to learn and identify any potential gaps to the standard. This process will also allow us to make the necessary adjustments toward meeting the standard. This is the called the “PDCA Cycle” of FPS.
PDCA is Plan, Do, Check and Adjust. This cycle is done over and over again as a continuous cycle, similar to a wheel spinning. It is done repeatedly with the end goal of achieving zero defects and 100 percent flow.
We plan (Strategic Planning), Do (Implement), Check (Process Confirmation), then Adjust (Continuous Improvement).
As implementation of Standards (Phase B), Issue Management (Phase D), Process Confirmation (Phase E), and Continuous Improvement (Phase F) increase and approach 100 percent, you’ll notice visible evidence on the shop floor of FPS in action.
In TOP (Trans Oil Pump), Zone Boards and Process Confirmation (T-Card’s) have already been implemented. With those, the standard times (T&DM) to use those tools come into play. FPS has gained major traction in TOP. These tools are currently being put in place in the following departments: Battery, Kitting, Carbon Canister, Coil-On-Plug, and Air Induction Systems.
During the implementation of these resources, we will use the PDCA cycle to frequently check the implementation to the standard and make adjustments accordingly to ensure that the standard is being met, understood, and is sufficient.
In closing, we must all stay focused on our FPS objectives in 2014, while at the same time, continuing to strive for excellence in all facets of the organization.