For a successful manufacturing company to consistently realise success
invariably requires the organisation to find new methods of achieving
competitive advantages. Today time is on the cutting edge and represents one
of the most determinants of leading companies. This project is a part of an ongoing effort to sustain a competitive position and thus maintain company
prosperity especially with new competitors entering the European Community
(EU). Additionally reduced lead-time at Hephaestus S.A., will lead to reduced
operating costs, which will enhance the profitability of this company.
The aim of this project is to develop a generic tool based on the knowledge
gained from a literature research into formal methodologies for reducing leadtime. This generic tool was tested by its application to the activities of
Hephaestus S.A., and investigated how problems areas can be addressed.
Finally recommendations have been made to Heaphaestus S.A. for reducing its
lead-time and improving its operating efficiency