MAX-SERV test case iniatives achieve strong result

Edited by the Manufacturingtalk editorial team Jun 29, 2004

MAX-SERV, the EU-backed virtual support centre for manufacturing excellence reports that its programme of funded test case initiatives is continuing to deliver strong results.

MAX-SERV, the EU-backed virtual support centre for manufacturing excellence reports that its programme of funded test case initiatives is continuing to deliver strong results, but warns that time is running out with a deadline for new applications by the end of August.

Designed to demonstrate the power of Benchmarking in improving manufacturing performance, the approach has proved popular with more than twelve applications having been carried out, beneficially, in the last twelve months.

The scheme works by MAX-SERV arranging benchmarking activities to assess manufacturers' current operations and where needed, direction for achieving world-class performance.

With a focus on the Process Industries, recent take-up has included operators in speciality chemicals, plastics, food and paper and pulp.

Results have been impressive with six figure savings, allied to short paybacks being the norm.

British collaborator, Mark Lewis, CEO of benchmarking specialists PICME reports that "The Chemical Industries Association is strongly behind benchmarking and in the UK, tangible manufacturing improvements are being made by operators of all sizes".

He urges process manufacturers to make use of the advantages of the MAX-SERV test case approach whilst it is still available.

By the end of the year, the intention is to sever the EU link and move MAX-SERV to a fully commercial basis.

To mark this transition a Benchmarking Conference event is planned for November, providing manufacturing excellence insights and reporting on practical results achieved.