Polymer Conversions: The Significance of Lean Manufacturing











Benjamin J. Harp from Polymer Conversions, a solution provider at the marcus evans Medical Device Manufacturing Summit Fall 2011, on the importance of Lean Manufacturing in the medical device sector. 

Interview with: Benjamin J. Harp, Chief Operations Officer, Polymer Conversions


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


“Improving quality is critical in today’s marketplace, therefore organizations must understand what customers want and need early on in the design process to meet their expectations and requirements”, says Benjamin J. Harp, Chief Operations Officer, Polymer Conversions. Lean Manufacturing results in quality improvement, waste elimination and a reduction in time to market and total program costs.


From a solution provider company at the upcoming marcus evans Medical Device Manufacturing Summit Fall 2011, taking place in Amelia Island, Florida, November 13-15, Harp discusses the opportunities that Lean operational processes can bring to organizations. 


What three challenges are Medical Device Manufacturers currently facing?


Benjamin J. Harp: Firstly, complex government regulations unique to each market and country; we must identify what the regulatory differences are, so that we can adapt product to serve those markets.


Secondly, technology continues to change and we must learn how to incorporate these changes into the device. Lastly, technical skills are an issue, so we need the appropriate workforce to be able to support the product development and manufacture of high technology medical devices


Finding staff, especially, staff for skilled trade positions is difficult. Universities do not provide students with this type of education. Our only solution is to continuingly train employees, work with younger staff through apprentice programs and try to retain them.


Why is Lean Manufacturing important in today’s market? 


Benjamin J. Harp: With the constant shifts in the market, having a Lean operation in place is critical. The market no longer accepts waste caused by out of control production or inefficient processes. A commitment to quality and Lean operations will result in quality improvement, waste elimination and a reduction in time and costs.


Improving quality is critical in today’s marketplace, therefore organizations must understand what customers want and need early on in the design process to meet their expectations and requirements. By tracking waste statistically, we can see where our errors are being made. 


Improving time to market is one of the most effective ways for eliminating waste and lowering costs. All parties involved in the process must be brought in sooner, so that any problems can be solved before the device goes through research and development, clinical trials, prototyping and manufacturing. Reducing the wait time of products will inevitably minimize costs, which satisfies both the customer and the organization.


Maintaining high quality standards would not be possible without a great workforce. Lean training provides employees with an important mindset and culture. We  set up every manufacturing cell with Lean in mind, that way we have the best possible cost matrix and value proposition for our customer and for our business.


What developments should Medical Device Manufacturers be prepared for?


Benjamin J. Harp: Miniaturizing high technology devices while increasing functionality in a patient-friendly manner is an upcoming trend that will change the way products are made.


With the role of healthcare changing, patients are now using medical devices at home, so products must become handheld and easy to use.


We must keep up-to-date with healthcare regulations worldwide, as these will affect the supply chain and product development immensely. The Healthcare Reform Act has led to an increase of taxation on devices, so some organizations are moving their product development dollars to countries with less restrictive regulatory policies.



Contact: Stacey Melvin, Journalist, marcus evans, Summits Division


Tel: + 357 22 849 400
Email: press@marcusevanscy.com



About the Medical Device Manufacturing Summit Fall 2011


This unique forum will take place at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, Florida, November 13-15, 2011. Offering much more than any conference, exhibition or trade show, this exclusive meeting will bring together esteemed industry thought leaders and solution providers to a highly focused and interactive networking event. The Summit includes presentations on the future of medical technology innovation, driving growth and making use of sustainable approaches. 


For more information please send an email to info@marcusevanscy.com or visit the event website 


marcus evans group – manufacturing sector portal


Please note that the summit is a closed business event and the number of participants strictly limited.


About Polymer Conversions


Polymer Conversions, Inc., is a Full-Service, Contract Manufacturer that specializes in precision Tool Design & Manufacturing, Engineering, Thermoplastic Injection Molding, Clean Room Operations and Value-Added Services.


Further information can be found at: www.polymerconversions.com


About marcus evans Summits


marcus evans Summits are high level business forums for the world’s leading decision-makers to meet, learn and discuss strategies and solutions. Held at exclusive locations around the world, these events provide attendees with a unique opportunity to individually tailor their schedules of keynote presentations, think tanks, seminars and one-on-one business meetings. For more information, please visit www.marcusevans.com


                                                



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