Bombardier: Ready For Take Off
The application of ToC in an MRO environment
With a global reach and clients all over the world, solving Bombardier's Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul was always going to be a big challenge. The results that were obtained however, really restored this department to its best.
"Goldratt UK helped me synchronise my departments to deliver excellent results"
Stephen Addis, Managing Director, Bombardier Aerospace
Case Background
Bombardier Aerospace are the 3rd largest civil aircraft manufacture and repair and maintain thousands of aircraft. However, the company’s Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) unit in Belfast were not operating at maximum efficiency. Some notable issues were:
- Work in progress (WIP) was high and storing aeroplanes was becoming an issue
- Priorities were unclear and firefighting was the norm
- Poor Delivery Performance, of around 60%
- Low Customer satisfaction level – Which could jeopardise future
The Approach
Goldratt UK noticed immediately what need to be done with Bombardier. Creating a workflow, with optimum sequence of task and installing a priority system that is due date bound would be key to the success of this implementation.
In addition, Goldratt UK made sure that no repairs were started to unless all available parts were available this was so that there would be a considerable reduction in the WIP levels. Finally, a problem escalation method was also set up in order to get the correct assistance from senior management.
The Results
After Goldratt UK’s time with Bombardier there were several significant improvements within their MRO workshop:
- Work in progress (WIP) was high and storing aeroplanes was becoming an issue
- Priorities were unclear and firefighting was the norm
- Poor Delivery Performance, of around 60%
- Low Customer satisfaction level
What Did These results look and feel like?
- The organisation was more systematic, and Bombardier’s processes was more synchronised
- Increase in workshop space due to a reduction in WIP
- Better cohesion of workers and priorities are visual and known
- Improved Customer Satisfaction meaning an increase in usage of their services
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