Process Automation

Once you have a solid process established and being worked manually, now is your opportunity to bring additional value by automating that process.
The first step is to conduct a value stream mapping exercise to ensure that all work being done is value added.
Next - look for ways to automate.  This can be simple Excel macros and Visual Basic programs, off the shelf software built to manage the specific process, or even a custom program written specifically for your company and process (though this should be a last resort for many reasons).  
We can help you with all of the above - reducing time and errors in your most critical processes.

PDM / PLM

For those of you working in a product-centric environment (which is likely the majority who are reading this now), PDM & PLM are two must-haves to ensure clear organization, communication, and information flow between your teams.

[ PDM: product data management, typically the CAD and CAM data that defines your products ]

[ PLM: product lifecycle management, is the system that manages your product definition, issues, changes, and supplier communication throughout the life of the product ]

Operating in today's world without either of these will significantly increase the time your teams spend looking for product information and the risk of making a critical decision based on out of date information.

ERP

There is really not a lot to say here.  If you operate a manufacturing environment, then you probably already have some type of ERP system (Enterprise Resource Planning) to help manage your shop floor orders, inventory, accounting, and other critical facets of your operation.
What we can offer is support with integrating your ERP with your other business systems, such as PLM or even historical Excel reports and datasheets that are still in use.

Succession Planning

You've built a strong team and things are going great, but wait...life is full of changes.  Are you ready?

What if the worst happens to one or more of your key leaders or contributors?  Most companies are staffed fairly thin and usually don't have a solid, updated plan for cross training or promotion.

There needs to be a plan in place so that when the unforeseen does happen, or just when your senior member decides to retire, you're ready.  You have already identified the next member of the team who will step in place...and he already knows and has been training to take that step - successfully.

Business Goal Management

We all need goals.  They define the path we take and the activities we complete on a daily basis.  They also help ensure that your company remains successful, profitable, and going in the direction you need it to go.

You, as the executive leader should be developing a company plan annually - and reviewing and revising it at least quarterly.

Your vision (defined in that plan) is then rolled down to the next level and so on - for each of them to define the more specific targets that must be achieved to realize your ultimate goal for the company.

Sounds simple...and honestly it is.  Unfortunately too many companies get wrapped up in the day to day operations ("the noise") and forget about planning for the future.

We have done this successfully at $1B+ companies. 
Let The Method show you how and bring consistent, trustworthy, and clear information about how your company is truly performing against your vision.