PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla., Jan. 10, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- Recently named one of the IndustryWeek's 2004 Best Plants, Guidant Puerto Rico (GPR), a manufacturer of medical devices in Dorado, P.R., credits much of its success to lean consulting firm Achievement Dynamics (ADI) and affiliate company, the Lean Learning Center, a provider of lean curriculum. The two companies assisted GPR with its lean transformation through a combination of services including an Integrated Lean Assessment of the entire facility, the results of which GPR used as a guideline to launch its lean strategy. In addition, the companies provided on-site training of its leadership team, the establishment of a Lean Learning Laboratory on the plant floor, and education of key lean leaders through classes held at the Lean Learning Center in Novi, Michigan as well as one-on-one on-site coaching of these individuals.
"ADI and the Lean Learning Center played a significant role in helping us achieve our vision of being a world class manufacturer," said Heriberto Diaz, general manager, Guidant Puerto Rico. "We had implemented lean in bits and pieces before, but had never been able to achieve the cultural change required for sustained lean transformation. The real world experience of these companies combined with their down-to-earth approach made lean accessible throughout our organization."
"It's hard to ignore the impact of lean manufacturing when you see a 40% increase in productivity, 60% decrease in cycle time and a 25% increase in yield," said Achievement Dynamics President Andy Carlino. "GPR is a great example of 'the tail wagging the dog.' Its success has inspired Guidant Corporation to now implement lean at its St. Paul, Minn. and Clonmel, Ireland facilities."
GPR originally began its World Class 2006 initiative in January 2003 and it was at this point it began its work with ADI and the Center. The company's ongoing plan includes a goal that all employees at the facility must receive lean training in 2004 and that any new hire must go through a basic lean course that Guidant has developed.
"Andy's guidance made a huge difference," continued Diaz. "He was there every step of the way helping to fine-tune our strategy and to orchestrate our roll-out plan. He is not just a consultant that wants to collect a fee, but a committed participant with a vested interest in making lean work."
Notes to editors:
About Achievement Dynamics
Founded in 1991 as a management consultant firm, ADI is known for its expertise in the principles and practices of lean manufacturing, organizational development, process improvement and human resource development. In combination with corporate partner the Lean Learning Center (founded in 2001), a provider of lean curriculum, the companies provide a full complement of lean transformation services. Industries served include aerospace, automotive, communications, public utilities, health care, food processing, retail and more.
Guidant Puerto Rico
GPR, located in Dorado, P.R., makes medical devices including a variety of pacemaker leads. It is part of the Guidant Corporation, a pioneer of lifesaving technology targeted at Cardiac and vascular patients worldwide. The company, driven by a strong entrepreneurial culture of 11,000 employees, developed, manufactures and markets a broad array of products and services that enable less invasive care for some of life's most threatening medical conditions. For more information, visit www.guidant.com