The term “visual factory” refers to a method of lean manufacturing that incorporates visual data throughout the workplace. A visual factory employs a set of communication technologies to distribute information when and where it is required.
By answering inquiries, identifying equipment, products, and locations, describing activities and procedures, and offering safety alerts and preventive information, visual controls improve working environments. Visual tools also help employees be more productive by providing them with the information they need, when and when they need it.
How does a visual factory work?
A visual factory uses signs, labels, charts, info graphics, and other communication tools to communicate data in an effective manner as part of the lean manufacturing process. The time spent reading, digesting, and interpreting text-based instructions is cut in half when this information is presented graphically.
- Procedures at work
- The data that an employee requires in order to fulfill their duties
- The general layout of the job site, as well as important access points (such as aisles, doors, and routes) where information might be useful to an employee
- What a company aims to achieve by creating a visual factory
Employers should consider applying 5S, a lean manufacturing method that eliminates waste, promotes consistency, and fosters facility-wide organisation, while analyzing these areas. Visual order is one of the basic ideas of 5S methodology , making it an ideal tool for constructing a visual factory.
The next stage is to figure out how to share the data.
This is accomplished through a set of visual cues and systems that are tailored to the needs of a particular workplace. Among these are:
- Visual Identification display boards give real-time information about the state of production (or a process) in a facility and warn workers when help is required.
- Employees can use floor marking aids and way finding markers to locate paths, entrances, exits, navigational aids, and other instructions.
- Inventory, storage, tools, and other critical resources are designated by signs and labels.
What are the benefits of Visual Factory?
Visual factories have a number of advantages across a facility, including:
- Productivity and output have increased.
- In complex surroundings, it’s important to have clear, simple directions.
- A more secure workplace (given the clear, intentional visual communication)
- Profits that are higher (due to more efficient processes)
- Throughout a job process, there are fewer errors and less guesswork.
What are the solutions of Visual Factory?
Visual controls like safety posters, identification boards, labelling, signages are essential elements of a visually appealing workplace. Employees get the information they need through properly-placed visual displays and contribute to the company’s success through clear communication.
Visualmitra can help you create clear, effective personalized visual communication. You’ll find the right equipment to start or improve your facility’s visual. Health and safety managers use these signs and labels all over the world to keep workers safe, orient them around a job-site, and alert them to crucial information.