Visual Management System (VMS) in Garments Industry
A visual Management system is visualizing necessary information to share information, standards (SOP), performance (daily, weekly, monthly base), targets, warnings, etc. in the workplace so that jobs can utilize a visual Management System. This article presents the Visual Management System (VMS) in the Garments Industry.
One of the lean manufacturing techniques which very effective for any manufacturing industry, especially for the garments manufacturing industry. Generally, the workplace is visualized by an employee’s work performance report (KPI), process indicator, job description, work Manual, etc. Visual management is the most powerful tool used in the manufacturing industry for spreading a message to the workforce.
Visual Management system (VMS) in the Apparel industry
Apparel manufacturing is the longest manufacturing flow with a much complex process. Actually, every process of apparel manufacturing is complex and there is a certain chance of error if you do not work carefully. Visual Management helps to show what to do, what is the standard way, and how to do every individual work. Work guideline with picture In front of worker reduces the chance of making a mistake. Setting a target and showing results on the board will inspire the employee to increase efficiency, comparative competition starts among all departments to perform more.
Does Job utilize visual Management in Apparel?
Yes, if all field employees understand the message of visual Management if Visual Management The system guides them and provides performance reports. To visualize all information should be clear and easy to understand for all.
Advantages of Visual Management in the Garments Industry
- Reduce defects and variations
- Save time
- Quick problem solving
- Improve work efficiency
- Improve performance and teamwork.
- Reduce cost
- Remove communication gaps and keep the team alignment.
Some effective visual Management tools that work for the Apparel industry
- Kanban board
- Traffic Light system
- KPI board
- Work SOP
- 5S Housekeeping
- MDI Board
- Visual Dashboard.
Some effective ways of Visualize work Floor
- On lights
- Stock Controls and Signals
- Cross-Training Matrix for Employees
- 5S (signs, tape, labels, color coding, etc)
- Control Plans
- Production / Quality / Delivery / Service Metrics
- Glass Wall Metrics
- FMEA’s
- Auditing Boards
- Spare Parts Availability (flow racks)
- Standard Operating Procedures or Standard Work
- SPC on the production floor
- Preventive Maintenance Boards
- Shadow Boards
- Color coding
- Labels
- Shadow boards
- Floor markings
- Wall signs and banners
The system has a great role in the garments industry in streamlining operations, productivity, and a transformed culture of empowerment and continuous improvement-the Visual Management System. Visual management employs color coding with different signs, charts, and digital displays to transmit critical information about problems and opportunities for problem-solving in a short time visually; this influences workers and managers towards creating a platform where one can quickly identification of bottlenecks with informed decision-making.
Workflow improved with this system will have less error, less waste, and better quality control, thus proven tools for marketing very fast in the garments industry. Furthermore, the Visual Management System simplifies complex process tasks, giving employees a sense of ownership in their work. This also nearly fits the lean manufacturing principles, i.e., supporting just-in-time production and minimizing downtimes.
With the continuous evolution of the garment industry in terms of their demands for sustainability and customization, induction of VMS will definitely prove valuable in sustaining business operational excellence at every end of the customer chain. The models are innovative methods in driving efficiency, quality, and newness in the garments industry toward also a global vibrant market region strategic approach to long-term success.