Review Case Study 5.1: Live Racking at B.M.W. found in Chapter 5 of the text. Assume that you are the warehouse director for B.M.W. B.M.W. has learned that the 39-second cycle time described in the case is inadequate for 21st century operations and has asked you to reduce the cycle time down to 30 seconds or less. In 200-300 words, identify a technique described in Chapter 4 or 5 that could potentially be used to reduce cycle time down to 30 seconds or less
As the warehouse director for B.M.W for the new facility, I believe the measures put in place will assist the organization in the efficient movement of product. However the one change I would advise is the implementation of the Adjustable pallet racking (APR) technique. This system is identified by the use of adjustable horizontal beams between the vertical uprights. This will allow for flexibility in changes to the production line run. The only problem would be need for wider aisles. The fix would be In the text it states “APR rack lengths of around 25 to 30 meters favor good flow movements with gaps as needed to give cross gangway access” (Emmett, 2005, p 124). This improved access will allow for faster movement in the facility and in turn reduced cycle time.
References
Emmett, S., (2005). Excellence in warehouse management, 1st Edition. West Sussex, England: John Wiley & Sons Ltd, ISBN: