The Workflow Solution

Streamline Consulting worked with manager Michael Riggs and his 3-person team to map Monarch Direct’s project flow. We implemented a visual system to make any bottlenecks visible; once we identified workflow jams, we knew we could do something about the problem.

Most of our changes were simple:

• We reduced hot lots to a manageable level and worked the remaining orders first-in, first-out.
• We cross-trained staff so that we could balance the workload.
• We increased focus and concentration for the graphic designer by directing traffic to the main entrance rather than her office door. This was a quick fix: a simple sign, closed blinds, and a lock on the door was all it took to reroute traffic.

Within a few weeks, Monarch Direct had cut its order turnaround time in half. Within a few more weeks, the work was better balanced and cash flow greatly improved.

Sometimes it’s the simple, inexpensive changes that make a tremendous difference in an operation. These are cost-effective changes and we find them.