Integrating MEP Lean Programs & TWI

The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) network of centers are enabled by federal/and or State funding to provide productivity/competitive assistance to small/medium sized manufacturing companies across the United States and Puerto Rico.. Training Within Industry, TWI, programs enhance these efforts by providing client team leads and coaches with the in-house skills to sustain the gains. TWI’s three modules (Job Relations, Job Instructions, and Job Methods) are proven methodologies with long track records of success. TWI implementation adds value for both the client and MEP Center.:

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  Client companies have documented measurable, sustainable impacts
• TWI revives ‘Lean’ implementations that have suffered typical back sliding
• Participating MEP centers capture these same impacts
• The programs are not another traditional ‘Lean tool’ but are mortar to strengthen the tools
• TWI has demonstrated a positive revenue stream with a solid ROI

MEP centers interested in adding the complement of TWI modules to their offerings should consider:

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  Many MEP centers have already experienced great success with their clients
• The demand for TWI is growing exponentially
• Centers choosing to participate can deliver TWI to their clients using any TWI Institute Certified Trainer or choose staff member(s) to become a Certified Trainer(s)
• TWI does not compete with other MEPU offerings
• Centers have often generated interest in the Lean programs through open enrollment or dedicated TWI deliveries
• TWI Institute has readily available marketing collaterals in support of center efforts (Lean 101 with TWI integration, articles, brochures with space for center contact information, client testimonial DVD, etc.

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  The TWI Institute will provide additional support;
  • Arrange client visits to companies using TWI
  • Overview visits to potential clients by Program Manager or Master Trainer as appropriate
  • Coaching on successful implementation strategies
  • Client references
  • Networking with Participating Centers via annual TWI conferences, summit meetings and shared file access
• The TWI institute was founded and is currently hosted by Central New York Technology Development Organization, an MEP Center.
• TWI Institute refers qualified inquiries to the appropriate MEP center