A framework for VSM integrated with Fuzzy QFD. Issue 5 (10th August 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mohanraj, R.; Sakthivel, M.; Vinodh, S; Vimal, K.E.K.
• Is Part Of: TQM journal. Volume 27:Issue 5(2015)
• Page Start: 616
• Page End: 632
• Publication Date: 2015-08-10
• Subjects: Lean manufacturing -- Quality function deployment -- Value stream mapping -- Fuzzy logic -- Automotive component; Total quality management -- Periodicals; 658.562
• DOI: 10.1108/TQM-11-2012-0088
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1754-2731

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: – The purpose of this paper is to apply a framework for value stream mapping (VSM) integrated with fuzzy quality function deployment (QFD) for enabling scientific prioritization of improvement proposals to improve leanness. Design/methodology/approach: – The literature was reviewed from the perspectives of VSM, QFD and fuzzy logic applications. The current state map was developed for the case component; fuzzy QFD was used for prioritizing improvement proposals and prioritized proposals were incorporated in the future state map. Findings: – The approach enabled the scientific mapping of wastes with improvement proposals and thereby enabling systematic implementation of improvement proposals. The conducted pilot study resulted in 4 percent reduction in cycle time. As the lean implementation is a continuous process, furthermore improvements are expected in near future. Research limitations/implications: – The study was conducted in an Indian camshaft manufacturing organization. The improvements in terms of leanness parameters were quantified. Practical implications: – The findings determined from the study has practical relevance. Besides, managerial implications were also discussed. Originality/value: – The study presented in this paper was conducted in a real time manufacturing environment. Hence the contributions of study are found to be valuable among academic and practicing communities.