The Manufacturing Manager of New Technology Company Is Concerned About

question 79

Essay

The manufacturing manager of New Technology Company is concerned about the company's newest plant. When the plant began operations three years ago, it had the best of everything. It had modern equipment, well-trained employees, engineered work and assembly stations, and a controlled environment. During the first two years, the evaluation results were very good with almost all cost variances being favorable. However, recently, things have turned negative.
In recent months, everything seems to be operating in a crisis management mode. Although most cost variances remain favorable, the plant's segment contribution is declining and customers are complaining about poor quality and slow delivery. Several customers have suggested that they may take their business elsewhere if things do not improve.
The shop floor is in continual turmoil. In-process inventory is everywhere, production employees have difficulty finding jobs that need to be worked on, and scheduling has requested a larger computer to keep track of work in process.
The vice president of sales does not know where to begin with solving the customers' problems. It seems that everyone is working very hard and the plant has the best facilities and trained employees in the industry.
Required:
What is the nature of the plant's problems? What recommendation would you make to help improve the situation?

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Definitions:

Computer Software

Computer Software encompasses programs and operating information used by a computer, directing how the hardware processes data and performs tasks.

Bond Issue

The process by which a government, corporation, or other entity raises funds by issuing bonds to investors.

Current Liabilities

Short-term financial obligations that are due within one fiscal year or the operating cycle, whichever is longer.

Refinancing

The process of replacing an existing loan with a new loan, typically with better terms, to improve financial outcomes.