Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) ← Back to Blog Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are integral components of industrial hardware systems. Because they were designed to be used mostly by non-engineer workers, it takes just a little effort to understand how crucial PLCs are in application and the many advantages they bring to the shop floor. KEY […]
Quality Management System (QMS)
Quality Management System (QMS) ← Back to Blog What is a Quality Management System? A Quality Management System (QMS) is a set of business processes and procedures aimed at achieving a specific performance goal, meeting quality standards, and continuously improving operations. Most QMSs are created and administered by a regulatory body, such as the ISO […]
Redundancy
Redundancy ← Back to Blog A redundancy is a repetitive, unnecessary step in a process; in manufacturing, redundancies are deliberate fail-safe measures integrated into a production cycle for risk management and system control. KEY TAKEAWAYS Technique used for Total Quality Management (TQM) Purpose is to limit extent of potential equipment or operator failures Helpful when […]
Root Cause Analysis
Root Cause Analysis ← Back to Blog What is Root Cause Analysis? Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is a method used to find the root cause of any malfunction, deficiency, or problem. It is most famously used in industries such as healthcare, science, and manufacturing/engineering but its principles can be used in any environment. As a […]
Rule Engine
Rule Engine ← Back to Blog What is a Rule Engine? A rule engine is a type of logic that enables manufacturing actions to be automated based on specific guidelines or pre-established “rules”. They are comprised of 2 key features: Defined conditions;Subsequent appropriate reactions.By looking at the current conditions, the rule engine will enact the […]
Six Sigma
Six Sigma is a management philosophy with the goal of reducing quality defects in production processes using a broad variety of statistical analysis “tools” and techniques. It is a robust methodology that borrows elements from other manufacturing methodologies, such as Lean, Agile Manufacturing, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), and the relatively similar (but functionally distinct!) Lean Six Sigma, for a few examples
Smart Forms
Smart Forms ← Back to Blog What Are Smart Forms? Smart Forms enable companies to create interactive forms and checklists that integrate directly into your work instructions. To the rest of the world, Smart Forms are primarily a method of collecting data from workers on the shop floor. But to us here at VKS, Smart […]
Software as a Service (SaaS)
← Back to Blog Software as a Service (SaaS) is an on-demand software licensing or web-based application platform offered on a subscription basis; it is under the umbrella of cloud computing. SaaS is beneficial to companies that would like the flexibility of a custom program without the complicated and costly infrastructure. It also allows for […]
What is Inventory?
While we often discuss inventory in terms of goods for sale, organizations – manufacturers, service-providers also have inventories (fixtures, furniture, supplies, etc.) that they do not intend to sell.
SOP
A Standard Operating Procedure, more commonly known as an SOP, is a set of instructions for a frequently performed action. An optimal SOP needs to be straightforward enough to be understood by most people, seeing as it is created to standardize tasks and improve the quality control of administrational details. It is known by many other common names, including protocol, code of conduct, checklist, or procedure.