Implement Creative Problem Solving: Engineering Solutions for Operational Efficiency
Our Fellows have many diverse skills, but one of the most important is their ability to creatively problem solve. During innovation projects Fellows may encounter something unexpected, but swiftly pivot to keep the project moving forward. Pratt Intermodal Chassis (PIC) is an enFocus sponsor seeking creative problem solving skills to understand how they can improve the efficiency of their plant floor layout. PIC has worked with Fellow Amy Lee to better understand their current state, implement proposed solutions, and work through project related challenges. She looks forward to her facilitating problem-solving skills as she improves PIC’s current state and takes on a full-time role as Project Engineer.
Amy's first collaboration with PIC was to optimize the plant’s workflow, maximize space utilization, and enhance overall safety in the manufacturing process. Her initial step involved understanding PIC’s existing operations. Amy crafted a process map to gain insight into their current manufacturing functions and pinpoint bottlenecks. Additionally, she developed a spaghetti map which is a playful term for a diagram that illustrates the flow of workers and products within the manufacturing process, enabling team members to identify areas of improvement.
Amy expands on the problem solving skills necessary to create visualization tools. She says, “To create these tools you must critically analyze challenges, strategize effective solutions, and meticulously chart out the necessary steps to achieve success in the project. Visualization tools are a valuable asset to project work because they empower others to navigate complex problems with clarity and efficiency.”
Visually representing the current state helps the PIC team clearly see where they can improve the movement of workflow. They moved forward with potential improvements by creating an implementation matrix to guide shop workers as they moved floor equipment and tools to reconfigure the floor layout.
Amy’s planning paved the way for the project, highlighting the importance of troubleshooting and involving stakeholders to navigate unforeseen circumstances. As the project unfolded, Amy used the plan as a roadmap. She and the PIC team made adjustments as needed to ensure the successful rearrangement of the floor layout according to the project’s objectives.
She emphasizes that problem solving skills require adaptability and flexibility. “Even when you plan, there will always be challenges and unexpected discoveries as you continue the project. Keeping an open mind to what is best for the project, sponsor, and employees will help you get to your end result.”
Amy’s responsibilities also extended to optimizing the layouts of newly relocated equipment substations to ensure maximum workflow efficiency. Drawing upon expertise of seasoned employees, she studied the most efficient subsection workflows before translating the layouts into a CAD drawing. The drawing served as a visual representation so staff could easily implement the arrangement displayed.
Amy’s collaboration with PIC relied heavily on relationships with employees on the shop floor and leveraging appropriate tools for task completion. According to Amy, “Relationships are instrumental in achieving project objectives. Efficiency is a collaborative effort, and our collective teamwork accomplishes objectives for progress.”
Amy will continue to implement her problem solving skills alongside the PIC team as she transitions to a full-time role as a Project Engineer. Amy’s transition to Project Engineer demonstrates considerable professional growth. Now, she will continue to implement change while leading teams and continually building relationships. Her problem solving skills and adaptability will help coach others to catalyze innovative solutions. At enFocus, we look forward to the impact Amy will continue to have at PIC and throughout our community as a facilitator of change.
Want to learn how you can implement problem solving skills to become a facilitator of change? Apply to our Fellowships, internships, and other open positions.
