By Alok Ghosal, CVS-Life
I am extremely happy to inform you that the Value Engineering initiative was launched in our unit during May 23-27, 2017. This technique has a step by step approach applied in all the functions of an industry to improve its operational performance while cost is being optimized. It is a unique technique based on function analysis which helps in creating new ideas without compromising the expected output parameters.
I believe that VE is extremely important for us and is being adopted at the right time as the ‘need of the hour’. I am thankful to Mr. Amit Ghosh, VE consultant and a Certified Value Specialist who accepted our invitation readily to conduct the VE program at our unit in China. He is a VE professional with enriched experience in VE for more than 25 years.
Plant Visit
In the beginning, a plant visit was organized for Mr. Amit Ghosh to become familiar with the plant operations. He was also introduced to employees and was invited in special events of our units like birthday celebrations of employees to appreciate the culture of the company.
The VE Session
The VE sessions were conducted by Mr. Ghosh in a very effective manner to the participants which included overview, steps of VE, function analysis, creativity, life cycle costing, experiential learning, evaluation techniques, etc. For a better understanding of function analysis, function-cost-worth analysis and FAST diagram, a workshop on experiential learning was organized. Each team shared their findings through presentations.
Based on the inputs, at the end of the program a brain storming session was conducted where about 17 themes of existing pain areas of our unit were identified. Subsequently the proposed VE projects (action oriented) from these themes were decided. The constitution of cross functional teams, collection of basic information and data are in progress. The detailed study of these projects and plan for implementation of recommendations are being worked out.
VE Preliminary Examination
Based on the inputs given and knowledge gained in VE during the appreciation program, all 17 participating staff and officers had appeared for a preliminary written examination on VE. The results were very encouraging. I highly appreciated the commitment, dedication, involvement and active participation of our employees in the VE initiatives. I am confident that by implementing VE initiatives, there will be visible improvements in the key parameters like delivery time, productivity, customer complaints, inventory, operational cost, safety, etc.
Task Ahead
In order to further detail the study on the VE projects, a customized two day VE workshop may be planned. There will be weekly review meetings at the level of Head, Quality Assurance and a monthly review meeting at the level of Country Head.
VE Certification as VMA
Based on the requirement, some of the staff and officers will appear for the VMA certification examination in near future.
Acknowledgement
I will take this opportunity to convey my sincere thanks to Mr. P.S. Reddy and Mr. Sharman Alok Dhar for their whole-hearted support and guidance for the kick-off of VE in York, China. I also want to thank Mr. Fei Hui for his coordination and interpretation during the sessions.
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