An automobile original equipment manufacturer notices that a large amount of capital is tied down in inventory and produced finished products. The profit margins are shrinking and the competitors are gaining on this established company. This company still maintains its old manufacturing practices and quality issues are cropping again and again. The warranty claims are eating into its profits due to poor finish.

Discuss:

1) What new manufacturing technique is appropriate for this company?

2) How should the company prepare for it?

3) What are the human resource requirements to implement the new technique?

4) How can the suppliers help the company?

5) What are the expected results for the company.