How to Improve Production Efficiencies

Small business owners work hard to support the long-term success of their company, but many entrepreneurs may be overlooking ways to improve their production efficiency.

Having a greater understanding of your processes can help your business become better organized, which can result in stronger supply chains, happier customers, and safer employees. The following are several factors related to production efficiency to evaluate and help keep your small business on track.

Improve Your Business Processes

It can be difficult to break old habits, but being willing to do so can add tremendous value to your small business. Look for ways to challenge each step you take during the production processes and how you manage other systems and technologies. You’ll also want to make sure the space you use to run your business is being fully utilized. Sometimes even a small redesign or layout change can result in time savings and/or increased production.

Evaluate Your Production Line

You’ll want to make sure you’re measuring throughput, which is defined as the average number of units your company produces in a given period. This can be a good way to help uncover inefficiencies with machinery you use. Plus, understanding how equipment downtime impacts your bottom line can be crucial in deciding how quickly you repair or replace broken, outdated, or inefficient machinery.

Make Sure Your Technology is Up-to-Date

Not investing in updated technology can result in the loss of customers and employees. As part of your goal to stay ahead of your competition, consider inexpensive technology upgrades to enhance performance and efficiency levels. This can also help boost employee morale and aid in retention efforts.

Eliminate Wastefulness

It’s easy to miss opportunities to identify wastefulness when you’ve followed the same steps and procedures for extended periods of time. However, asking a third party to evaluate your company’s processes and use of resources can bring new perspective. They may be able to provide unbiased suggestions about how you can reduce wasted materials and time. Additionally, recycling or reusing any leftover materials can also cut down on unnecessary costs.

Improve Training Practices

Well-trained and efficient employees are your greatest tools. Entrepreneurs who don’t offer ongoing training may miss out on opportunities to elevate their existing staff to greater heights and efficiencies. Plus, they oftentimes have unique insights and ideas that executives and high-priced consultants have never considered. Sometimes, all it takes is asking them for their input to uncover new or improved solutions.

Adopting a few principles and methods can add value to your small business. Our experienced banking professionals are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and expertise to help small business owners stay on track. Call us today at 866-762-8392 to learn more.