Using Redesign to Compete in a Dynamic Manufacturing Environment

ABSTRACTChange and the need to respond rapidly to it generate the need for new thinking in how manufacturing is performed. The transition from mass production manufacturing to flexible, agile manufacturing will require a major overhaul that can be accomplished only through redesigning and integrating resources including people, systems, and technology. This article examines three different types of redesign: process, organization, and factory. Also described is how one company, Texas Instruments Defense Systems & Electronics Group (DSEG), has employed a redesign methodology in its Harpoon missile program to remain competitive.