Our Family of Systematic Planning Methods
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Our mission is one of "helping our clients to help themselves." We do this with
a family of practical methods derived from more than 1000 projects in a wide range
of industries. Each method provides a phased, step-by-step approach to recurring
challenges and decisions.
Our methods are documented in publications
and available through training. They
are standard practice in leading companies around the world. Licensing, certification,
and train-the-trainer programs are available.
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Systematic Layout Planning (SLP)
SLP is the world's most practical and organized method for rearranging
existing or laying out new facilities. It is adaptable to factories, warehouses,
offices, labs, hospitals... Published in book form in nine languages, SLP is also
available on video. SLP is the procedural basis for most commercial software used
by space and layout planners. For an overview and example of manufacturing plant
layout click here.
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Systematic Planning of Manufacturing Cells (SPMC)
SPMC is the world's most practical and comprehensive method for
planning manufacturing cells and production lines. SPMC generates physical plans
and operating procedures for single-piece or small-batch flow. SPMC also addresses
motivation, training, job design, and performance measurement. Published in book
form, SPMC is also available on video.
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Systematic Handling Analysis (SHA)
SHA is a companion to the well-recognized SLP and the basis for
commercial software used in factory and warehouse flow studies. SHA guides equipment
selection and move planning, and ensures a cost-effective material handling system.
SHA includes Mag Count (and Macromag) -- a way to measure the "transportability"
of materials, before knowing the method of moving them. SHA is published in booklet
form.
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Systematic Container Planning (SCP)
A companion method to SHA, SCP guides the specification and selection
of industrial containers. When the logistics plan calls for returnable containers,
SCP assures an effective total system. SCP applies to all levels of container movement
-- within workcells, between cells and supermarkets within a plant, or between the
plant and its external suppliers and customers.
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LEANplan
LEANplan uses value stream mapping to plan for lean operations
-- plant wide or across the supply chain. When used with the other Muther methods,
LEANplan is the “master method.” SLP, SPMC, SHA, and others follow as needed to
enable and support the lean operating plan.
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MAXiT
MAXiT guides the design of business processes, procedures, and
information systems. Developed by High Performance Concepts, Inc., MAXiT is useful
when the lean operating plan calls for changes in customer and supplier communications,
transportation planning, production scheduling, material control, and cost accounting.
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Systematic Network Planning (SNP)
SNP helps to plan and manage the modeling of logistical networks.
It presumes the use of mathematical optimization and software modeling tools. SNP
provides standard phases, tasks and key documents for conducting network planning
projects of any kind or scale.
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Additional Planning Methods
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SSA provides a structured method for planning warehouses, distribution
centers and storage spaces. A derivative of our popular SLP and SHA methods, SSA
links inventory and materials management practices to space and equipment requirements.
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We pioneered practical techniques for 10- and 20-year site and
facilities planning, and today we offer the world's leading work course in this
approach. Essential during periods of rapid growth or consolidation, our methods
ensure that facilities plans support manufacturing & logistics strategies.
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SPIF is a total approach of inter-related planning systems, ideal
for new construction or major expansions. Documented in a two-volume text, SPIF
provides procedures, checklists, and decision-aids for many common issues in new
construction projects. On major projects, SPIF is the “master method,” assuring
integrated plans for each component of the facility – the layout, material handling,
communications, utilities, and the structure or building itself.
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SMSP guides land use and real estate planning. A necessary first
phase when developing or re-developing any large industrial site, SMSP is ideal
when environmental issues are present. It also applies to military, public, and
institutional sites.
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