operations flexibility in process industries - Roland Berger Strategy ...

1A manufacturer of pharmaceutical products uses a centralcoordination department to react to short term customer demandsInterview example: Pharmaceutical industrySITUATION/CHALLENGEComplex market conditions• High volatility in demand• Fast changing g customerneeds/preferences• Short product life-cycleSOLUTIONCoordinationdepartment• Close working relationshipwith customers andfast communication ofcustomer needs into theorganization via centralcoordination departmentCentral coordination departmentR&DProduc-Marke-Customertioting• Central coordination department as an "earlywarning system" to react to trendsEnhance production capabilities• Continuously improve production technology (e.g.• Best practice technologycross industry benchmarking for productionis key important technology of flavors)• Contract manufacturing• React to specific country regulations, produce big lotwith high volumesImprove sizes for one country and minimize set-up times• Special regulations for technology • Standardize products in close relationship withindividual countries and planning customers to improve planning flexibilityhave an impact on• Enhance workforce flexibility; multi-purpose use ofproduction strategyworker capabilities (can operate all lines)Best practiceSource: Roland Berger interviews, 200831