Key to an efficient workshop is the management of maintenance, repair and overhaul products and consumables. Nigel Banks, Brammer Buck & Hickman services division managing director looks at ways to make this more efficient.
In managing maintenance, repair and overhaul products, many organisations take the traditional option of in-house stores management. However, this can be inefficient, diverting resources from the main business and sometimes resulting in a store that is poorly managed and staffed. How can you improve this?
Clear the clutter
First, you need to get to the point where you have a clean, clear and efficient workshop, so a thorough stock-take and clearout is required. Consider using batch-scanning software: this will provide you with a clear overview of all current stock, before deciding which items to keep, put in storage or to get rid of entirely.
Batch scanning is an easy-to-introduce barcode-driven stock check and replenishment process for organisations looking for a low cost, uncomplicated inventory management system. It also terminates the loss of undocumented stock as well providing a clear understanding of just where your products are going to.
Reduce the burden
To help reduce the burden of store management and staffing, consider the use of industrial vending machines. These dispense consumable items that are used most frequently by employees at the point where they are needed. This might include protective equipment, cutting tools, abrasives, hand tools, cleaning items, and lubricants and greases.
You decide which staff have access to which machines, and you can restrict access to certain items. Access is gained by a touch screen or barcode scanner followed by the entry of a PIN number unique to the user. Unlike stores, vending machines are operational 24 hours a day, so there’s never a delay in getting the items staff need.
Industrial vending machines are generally run through a third party, who will work with you to decide what should be stocked in the machines, along with which machines are best for you. When stock in the machines runs low the partner organisation is automatically notified to deliver replenishments and restock the machine.
As part of Brammer Buck & Hickman’s vendor managed services, Invend industrial vending machines have proved to result in a reduction in consumption of up to 40%, provide greater control over budgets for consumable items and free time for staff to focus on areas that add more value to your organisation.
Hand over inventory management
For larger companies, a further option is available in the form of an MRO consolidator who can provide services and dedicated personnel on site.
To all intents and purposes, it’s the equivalent of having an MRO distributor’s branch on your site, but working solely for you, with a single point of contact for orders and customer service enquiries. You get the highest level of customer service, and year on year cost savings through vendor optimisation and a reduction in the purchasing and transaction costs associated with indirect supplies.
Usually, you will have a dedicated individual or team working with you on site, employed by the MRO consolidator. This will allow you to establish a relationship not just with the company but with a person who can get to know your organisation in depth and make sure the service is completely tailored to your needs.
As a part of its vendor managed services, Brammer Buck & Hickman offers a such a service through its Insite solution.
Workshop management doesn’t have to be time-consuming and costly: there are solutions to make your workshops more cost-effective and efficient, whatever the size of company.