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Lean for Food Processing Idaho companies are stepping up to take advantage of a TechHelp's Lean Manufacturing for Food Processors program that helps food processing companies take advantage of the benefits of Lean. Idaho food processing companies that have implemented lean report: 30% productivity increase 50% improvement in floor space utilization 90% work-in-process reduction 50% quality improvement 90% lead time reduction Improved employee morale and retention due to Lean's focus on employee empowerment Improved customer service due to Lean's focus on creating customer value Improved safety due to Lean's focus on  "visual workplace" cues and standardized work practices Thanks to TechHelp Food Specialist, Jeff Kronenberg, TechHelp has been a national leader in adapting Lean to the unique needs of the food processing industry. Jeff played a key role in creating the kit, curriculum and activities for "Granny's Grahams" a Lean for Food simulation activity that gives food workers hands-on experience using Lean principles. Through classroom training, hands-on food production simulations and shop-floor exercises, TechHelp lean practitioners teach workers how to recognize and eliminate the eight types of manufacturing waste. Great American Appetizers of Nampa, Idaho began a Lean transformation in 2007 and is experiencing a host of benefits. At left, a GAA worker prepares an Idaho onion to become an onion ring. At left, TechHelp specialists lead a group of food processing employees through a Granny's Grahams Lean for Food simulation exercise. TechHelp can teach Lean in a simulated workshop setting or in the on the shop floor. The ultimate goal is to implement Lean throughout a plant and generate bottom line results.   Creating a visual workplace through the discipline of 5S is a key element of a Lean Transformation that can create a safe, efficient and orderly work environment. The outline of a ladder at right is a simple example of how creating a visual workplace gives workers  intuitive cues that transcend language.   What’s Unique About Adopting Lean in the Food Industry? Many processors face cultural and language barriers to productivity improvement. Processors may work with perishable foods that require special handling. Many food processors combine continuous flow and batch systems that add complexity. Food safety and quality must be considered when implementing Lean. TechHelp created the Lean English Essentials program that helps processors that have language and cultural issues in the plant implement Lean. For additional information regarding TechHelp's Lean for Food Program, contact your TechHelp Manufacturing Specialist . Other TechHelp Lean programs include: Lean Manufacturing Lean Enterprise Certification Program Lean for Food Processors Lean Office Lean English Essentials