The Inside Manufacturing Enterprise (IME) Programme, which has assisted more than 600 firms since its launch in 2003, has announced its latest line up of best practice factory tours that will tackle current industry challenges and help secure world class performance.
The next will take place at Gloucester-based Renishaw (July 7th) looking at manufacturing philosophy, process control and new product introduction followed by a visit to Birmingham's Precision Micro (July 14th) that will focus on rapid prototyping and continuous improvement.
Funded by the Manufacturing Advisory Service-West Midlands (MAS-WM) and delivered by Coventry University Enterprise, the programme will continue on July 17th at Hexagon Metrology for a showcase event on the latest measurement technology.
Michelle Connors, IME Project Officer, picked up the story: "Our visits offer informed insights into the different issues and challenges facing companies in the region and how they have been overcome – warts and all! They highlight the successes, but also potential pitfalls that can be encountered when adopting new practices.
“There is also the opportunity to network with likeminded individuals to gain inspiration and practical advice on common problems and with our technology showcase we are inviting companies to bring parts along that they are struggling to measure.”
She continued: “The latest trio of visits showcase three very different companies in Hexagon, Precision Micro and Renishaw. All are excelling in their chosen fields and will open their doors to show 36 delegates how they have implemented world class processes, developed new products and embraced the latest technology.”
Inside Manufacturing Enterprise has been running for eight years and in that time has facilitated more than 100 best practice visits to companies in a wide range of industries including Alcon Components, Airbus UK, KMF, Unipart Eberspacher Exhaust Systems (UEES), Yamazaki Mazak Europe and ZF Lemforder.
Seen as the first step on the continuous improvement journey, the tours have helped more than 600 manufacturers address key issues that have subsequently contributed to increased sales, cost savings, diversification and new employment opportunities.
Simon Griffiths, Chief Executive of MAS-WM, added his support: “There is no better way of learning then seeing something firsthand and in an environment you can relate to. We have a wealth of manufacturing expertise in the Midlands and IME is doing a great job in pulling it all together in a way that benefits the region as a whole.”
To book a place or for further information please contact Nicole Barraclough on 07974 984128 or email nbarraclough@cad.coventry.ac.uk.
