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.
7. Standardize ICDs
Provide consistent answers to recurring questions
| No. | Industry SIC | Year | Notes |
| 1 | 0 | 2008 | Companies are offering stipends to workers who buy their own health coverage in the individual market, such as eHealthInsurace Services Inc. This strategy shields employers from premium increases and reduces administrative burdens, while providing employees with help toward their medical expenses. |
| 2 | 3546 | 2007 | Companies are working to improve customer service while reducing costs. New knowledge bases store frequently asked questions which provide customers with consistent answers despite high turnover rates. They can also help manufacturers detect problems with products and designs. When Black & Decker received complaints about a certain product, it was able to track and monitor them and quickly make changes to ensure the new version of the product worked properly and was not returned. |
| 3 | 3600 | 2007 | Companies are working to improve customer service while reducing costs. New knowledge bases store frequently asked questions which provide customers with consistent answers despite high turnover rates. Xerox realized that many callers were asking the same thing so it gave employees the best answers and modified the user manual. Software allowed Xerox to share these knowledge bases globally to prevent work from being repeated. |
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