GE to Use Lean for New Product Line

IndustryWeek - Company is shifting strategy to one that starts with the most efficient way to manufacture, changing the whole strategy of product development.  GE Appliances & Lighting will invest $600 million over the next year four years at its  manufacturing facilities at Louisville's Appliance Park to set up two major product platforms -- the GeoSpring Hybrid Water Heater and a new frontload laundry pair.

The first completely new product line to be manufactured at GE's Appliance Park in more than 50 years will be developed and manufactured using the Shingijutsu philosophy or Lean production system. GE's engineers, quality, production (hourly and salaried) and sourcing teams have abandoned the traditional tools of their trade, left their work spaces, and co-located in one work area, under the instruction of senseis, to execute the (3P) strategy -– production, preparation and process, the company explained.