Exchanging experiences in lean

The implementation of lean is an ongoing process at Saab Aerostructures and the customers are of course included in the process. As a way of transferring knowledge, Boeing made a visit.

Saab Aerostructures manufactures large cargo doors, bulk cargo doors and access doors for the Boeing 787. Both the development and production of the doors is based on lean principles and the production is carried out in a pulsed line. As a way of exchanging experiences about lean implementation, Boeing recently made a three-day visit to Saab Aerostructres.

“The visit has been really interesting and we have got the opportunity to see a lot,” says Jack Sanders, lean consultant at Boeing. “It is striking to see how committed all the leaders here are to the lean system. We are excited to be working with Saab and we appreciate our strong partnership.”

They noted that Saab Aerostructures has come a long way with the lean system - the pulsed line production and the visual planning boards among other things. They also saw opportunities for further improvements in some areas.

“We have had very helpful comments and suggestions that could be implemented,” says Mats Karlström. “This knowledge transfer is really important for us and we look forward to continue the cooperation with Boeing.”