If you’re like most CNC shop owners you’re a hands-on person who probably started out running jobs yourself. Nowadays, however, you may find yourself everywhere but on your shop floor. You meet with customers and suppliers, track down job opportunities, keep up on the latest machining technologies and sift through paperwork.
While all of this is important and necessary, you still need to make time to spend an hour or so each day being visible to your employees by walking the shop floor. It shows that you care about the production end of your business and the people who make it happen. Need more reasons? Here are 5:
- See how a process actually works. CAD drawings and machine specs only tell you so much. If you’re on the floor watching a part being machined you’ll have a much better understanding of how efficient the process is and be able to discuss possible improvements with the operator. For example, would it be more efficient to machine the part on a 5-axis machine?
- Observe machine maintenance. Are your people using the right lubricants? Are they inspecting parts that are subject to wear and damage? Are all of the oil fill caps replaced so contaminants won’t get in? Failure to clean and properly lubricate machine tools can cost even a small CNC shop thousands of dollars each year.
- Find rising stars. The more you get to know your people and observe how they handle tasks, the better you can identify those who have the potential to grow into more demanding jobs. These are the employees you’ll earmark for additional responsibilities and promotions. They’re the future of your company.
- Identify training needs. As CNC machine tools become more sophisticated, your people may need additional training to properly program, setup and operate this equipment. By observing their progress first hand, you can better determine who needs training.
- Get to know your employees better. This requires taking the time to have conversations as you walk the floor. You won’t do this with everyone each day, of course, but over time you’ll be able to make the rounds. Ask them how the job is going and if there’s any issues you should know about. It doesn’t hurt to ask about their lives outside of work, either. How was the vacation? Gone fishing lately? How’s the new baby?
These are just a few of the benefits of walking the shop floor on a regular basis. And as you make your rounds if you identify the need for new or better machine tools, parts or service, be sure to contact your Torrance Haas Factory Outlet. Call (310) 381-0750, email: jphillips@haasfactoryoutlet.com, or visit www.haasfactoryoutlet.com.