Making the transition to Quick Response Manufacturing (QRM) from traditional manufacturing philosophies and practices doesn’t come easily. Just ask Tom Schabel, CEO of Alexandria Industries.
“Are there challenges to implementing QRM? Absolutely,” Schabel says. “So many QRM concepts are contrary to traditional manufacturing.”
But the rewards become evident, and they’ve all been measurable for Alexandria: reduced lead times, consistent on-time deliveries, improved quality, expanded product lines and market share, targeted acquisitions — and best of all, highly satisfied customers. “If we strayed from our QRM philosophy, our customers would be more than a little upset with us,” Schabel says.
