Implementation

Datacraft Solutions has built the industry’s first true multi-tenant Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform to deliver its supply chain automation solutions. This means that our customers easily and securely access our applications for a low, predictable monthly subscription fee without additional internal IT support and management costs associated with specialized software. The SaaS model has become very popular with dynamic, fast-changing businesses in a variety of industries.

Our on-demand solutions can be readily integrated with back-office ERP and other systems, and can be fully implemented in as little as a few weeks. Once up and running, service is available and supported 24-7. No complicated, expensive, time-intensive software implementation is necessary; no extensive training regimen is required; no internal support headaches are created. Our customers concentrate on growing their business, not overhead.

Implementation takes place in three simple steps(see below), and our SaaS model insures that you can be up and running, and seeing measurable results, in a matter of weeks. Of course, implementation of supply chain streamlining and automation solutions like Kanban depends on more than good systems – there are other factors involved. See the Success Factors section below for some of our observations gleaned from our customers’ implementations. For more background and information, view our webinar files on Automating Your Supply Chain.

Consulting services and customized training are also available, and services are scalable so you can design a package that fits your budget. Contact us today.

Project Phases

Phase One: Assessment and Optimization

Our implementation experts will conduct an on-site assessment of your situation and make recommendations for optimizing your plant for lean manufacturing, and present a plan for implementation of Signum.

View our Introduction to Pull Systems.

Phase Two: Implementation

The technical team at Datacraft Solutions, Inc. will prepare Signum for your use, according to the assessment from the implementation specialists. Your staff will be trained on the use of Signum and the processes outlined in the optimization report to keep things running efficiently.

Phase Three: Continued Support

Our expert team of customer support specialists are always on-hand to answer questions you may have about Signum. We are also available to your suppliers for Curator support.

Success Factors

An implementation of a kanban system has a number of factors that can determine success or failure.

  • Simple and understandable processes.
  • Provide quick, precise, visible information to resources involved in the production process.
  • Limit / manage over-capacity and over production of goods.
  • Develop solid, log-term supplier relationships.
  • Minimize waste.
  • Maintain control of the production process.
  • Delegate responsibility to line workers.

Strategy for Kanban Success

1

Develop reliable communications both internally and externally with your suppliers

2

Develop solid supply chain partnerships

  • Transition from tactical to strategic purchasing
    • Build partnerships with trust
    • Focus on Total Cost of Ownership – not just landed cost
  • Lean initiatives outside of your 4 walls
  • Avoid the whiplash effect
    • Don’t push your inventory into your supplier’s warehouse
    • Help your suppliers adopt lean in their operations
  • Negotiate more frequent deliveries and smaller reorder quantities
3

Optimize your inventory

  • Develop reliable supplier performance
    • On-time Deliveries & Fill Rates
    • Quality first-time, every time
  • Reduce buffer stock for supply variability
  • Recalculate your card levels
  • Velocity, velocity, velocity
4

Level demand with your customers

  • Reduce buffer stock for demand variability