Eflex Systems Blog How to Easily Manage High Mix Assembly with MIP Technology

Lean manufacturing principles have long been implemented and improved upon since the 1930s, following World War II, when Kiichiro Toyoda and Taiichi Ohno, first introduced process flow innovations and the Toyota Production System for their low mix assembly operation. Global manufacturers utilizing continuous improvement programs for standardized products have historically been able to achieve high levels of efficiency and quality. However, over the past two decades, a shift in customer demands has occurred. According to the Deloitte Consumer Review, Made to Order: The Rise of Mass Personalization, “More than 50 percent of consumers expressed interest in purchasing customized products or services. Moreover, not only would the majority be willing to pay more for a customized product or service, they would also like to be more actively involved in the process.”  It’s clear that trends for customized products have increased substantially over the past 2 decades from planes, cars, and furniture to NikeiD shoes to name a few.