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

Use bar code technology to:
Identify items

No.	Industry SIC	Year	Notes
	3861	1992	In 1988, Fuji installed computer-integrated lines where setup, parts selection, and assembly are all automated using bar codes that tell the machines what to do. Before this, Fuji filled orders in 3 days. Now it needs 24 hours, using 1/3 as many workers and almost 1/3 less inventory–making 3 times more variety.
	4513	2002	FedEx Corp., in the latest move in a technology battle among the world's delivery carriers, said it will introduce PowerPads, a new generation of handheld, wireless computers that can capture detailed package information.
	5945	1988	Toys R Us invested in scanning equipment to move customers through checkout lines faster: a major reason why sales increased.

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