Seeing the system
        Step Two  
         
 
 
      The following flowchart comes from AISA, a  manufacturer of very sophisticated Tool Machines for handling  plain glass for the automotive sector.
      The flowchart describes the process by which the manufacturer manages requests from clients for spare parts. These spare parts are not actually made by the manufacturer. They could, in fact, be purchased by the machine user directly from the spare parts supplier, thus by-passing the manufacturer. However, clients prefer to pay a higher price and get them from the manufacturer, who is able to guarantee a fast and efficient supply.

      The process flow was designed to minimize the time it takes to purchase from the supplier and send the parts to the client. Unfortunately, due to the high level of customization of the machines, the manufacturer cannot always keep the parts in stock and send them immediately. Moreover, as the machines are highly complex, effective purchasing entails close collaboration between the purchasing office, the shipping department and the sales department.

      At the points Q1, Q2 and Q3 numerical data is collected in order to check the variation of the actions carried out.

      In Step Three we will see the importance of the variation and how to check it : the tool for doing it is the control chart.
       

      see the flowchart (points Q1,Q2 and Q3 are clickable)