Should we implement new systems as we roll out a new program?

Should we implement new systems as we roll out a new program? It might not seem wise, but many new programs and product lines are tied to new market pressures and new customer requirements that are demanding improved processes to shorten cycle times, reduce cost, and improve the management of engineering and configuration changes to the product.

World-class manufacturers are making these radical changes with careful consideration of the benefits and risks. The key is taking steps to mitigate and manage the risks of impacting a product launch. One of the common approaches to reducing risk is to start implementing the new systems and procedures on the current programs in anticipation of the new program and expected production rate increase.

World-class manufacturers know that when it comes to implementing new procedures and systems, the sooner the better. Expected ramp up in production rates for the new program may also demand improvements and expansion of the plant facilities. Resistance to change by the workforce can be eased by presenting the changes to the facilities and systems as one package tied to the exciting ramp up for the new program.

Launch of Space Shuttle Endeavor (STS-118) 8/8/07
(Image Courtesy of NASA)

For example, United Space Alliance is improving processes and exercising procedures on the current space shuttle program that will be leveraged in NASA’s new Constellation program. NASA is implementing new philosophies on Constellation based on lessons learned from prior space programs and is raising the bar for all partners and suppliers on the next generation of space exploration vehicles.

The 3min video clip on this page, features NASA’s Associate Administrator for Space Operations, Bill Gerstenmaier, addressing the press among a panel of senior space agency officials following the successful launch of space shuttle Endeavour (STS-118) on August 8, 2007. Mr. Gerstenmaier speaks about the transition from the Space Shuttle to the new Constellation program, how his team is gearing up with new systems, and how they will be applying experiences from current challenges to the new program.

For video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6_BaTW5WLk

Excerpt from the video:

Q: Dave Mosher, Space.com: “I would like to know, what sort of feeling is among the employees of the shuttle fleet, contractors and NASA employees, what is going through their minds in regards to possibly loosing their jobs or being repurposed in the agency?”

A: Bill Gerstenmaier, NASA: “Our general perception is that this is one of the most exciting times we have ever had in the history of NASA. You may not realize what we are doing in these flights, but these are some of the most challenging engineering things we have ever attempted in space. … We know the space shuttle is going to end, but it is going to be the beginning of the next vehicle. … We powered OV-104 the other day with a new paperless system. That paperless system is the same system we are going to use to activate Ares in the future. So, is my team going out of business? No way. They are going into new business and they are excited about where they are going. This is the first part of exploration. We are looking forward and we are ready to go to the new systems.”

Artist rendition of Ares I
(Image Courtesy of NASA)