In the News

Total Quality Using “Lean” Principles

Based on principles originally developed by Toyota in Japan, Mission Bell strives for continuous improvement by removing non-value added steps throughout our business.  Over the last three years as a result of Lean principles and Rapid Improvement Events (RIE’s) held several times a year, Mission Bell is becoming increasingly efficient and better able to meet our customers’ requirements. 

The five basic principles of “Lean Thinking” include:
VALUE
What customers are willing to purchase
VALUE STREAM
The steps that deliver value
FLOW
Organizing the Value Stream to be
continuous
PULL
Triggering flow from customer needs
PERFECTION
Continuous improvement forever

One example of how Lean has impacted our business is the shift from breaking up projects by room instead of by cabinet type.  With our customers’ priorities in mind, we now complete installations on a room-by-room basis, rather than manufacturing similar casework all at the same time.  Efficiencies gained in installation and in better meeting our clients’ needs have resulted in improved customer service and fewer returns to the same room.