Reduce Unique ICDs by Redesigning the Product or the Process

The objective of this activity is to reduce the number of ICDs by reducing the occurrence of an ICD in producing a unit of Output, or by reducing the number of separate ICDs used in the Output. A unique ICD is one of the key activities in the work center's contribution to the final product (O). It is separate and distinct from any other activity in the work center. For example, the fastening of a part onto a subassembly and a quality control check of the subassembly would be unique ICDs.

B. Redesign the process of producing the ICD or Output

Change the process used to produce the ICD or Output to eliminate activities.

3. Automate an ICD

Write software to automate a repetitive task: Deliver information to or from user: Product information, including specs and delivery:
Specifications and service questions

No.	Industry SIC	Year	Notes
1	3531	2007	Companies often reduce labor costs by sending customers with questions and complaints to their website. However, search tools are often unsophisticated and inadequate. Some companies are investing in new technology which will improve search tools, provide discussion forums and connect with a live agent should they have additional questions. CNH Global, a maker of construction and agricultural equipment, adopted a system from Consona Corp which can help dealers find answers based on the product they are using.
2	3562	2003	Asheboro can go from a work order to a finished part in four hours, down form six to eight weeks in a traditional setup. Down the road, data used to machine a part will also become a marker, helping workers track defects, fix them in the field, and plan product revisions. What's more, digital designs from one facility can be zapped in an instant around the world to any other plant.
3	3669	2005	Black & Decker is taking another look at voice technology as such systems have greatly improved in the last two years and the prices have fallen. In January, Black & Decker launched a pilot program using a voice self-service system from RightNow Technologies. The strength of the system is the knowledge that comes along with the software, which allows customers to do their own research without a live agent on the line. For Black & Decker, most service calls cost the company about $5 when they're resolved by a live agent. Automated voice systems can handle many of those same tasks for 40 cents or less.
4	5411	1990	Some supermarkets are experimenting with electronic systems that will display product prices on an LCS display. Replace printed prices slapped on the front edge of shelves by stock clerks.
5	5734	1993	Software distribution channels changing rapidly w/ electronic catalog created by Ingram Micro, other CD catalogs. Overheads should be much lower than conventional software retailers'. Owners can try out the software before they buy it.
6	6300	2007	Companies are working to improve customer service while reducing costs. Farmers Insurance Group made it easier to find accurate information on policies and coverage quicker by employing intelligent search software.
7	7311	2000	Latcha used the Internet to create a virtual agency where he linked himself with free lance designers, photographers and others. Everything was digital all the way down to the printers and approvals were done on line as well.
8	8000	2007	Text messaging services are using government advisories and scientific studies to allow consumers to determine food safety and get instant health information on their cell phones. Women in England receive reminders to take their birth control pills while in Australia, AIDs patients receive guidance on complicated drug routines.

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