Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Time: 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: Winfrey Hotel
Cost: $20
Please make a reservation (Click Here)

Presidents Message from John Collins

Thanks to all who attended our February PDM at the Mercedes training center.  We had a large crowd and the remarks I've received are that none were disappointed.  Tom Wagonner of Mercedes provided an excellent explanation of the process Mercedes went through to overhaul their I.T. systems in support of concurrent two-vehicle introductions and a major plant expansion.  It was a great program!

April's program is intended as a follow up.  T.J. Tyrrell, CPIM, CSCP, a principal responsible for Global Business Solution Analysis and Design at INFOR, will be speaking on the process for aligning business strategy with operational infrastructure.  This session will describe a process for achieving operational alignment with strategic objectives and tactical actions.

There are several reasons this presentation is important.

1.     First, we were all impressed with the level of complexity of the Mercedes implementation.  We heard and saw the tactical and operational process they went through to get to a smooth running, productive system.  For many of us contemplating something similar for our businesses or for those who anticipate being involved in similar initiatives, the Mercedes experience looked overwhelming.  Is there a "how-to" guide for the rest of us? 

2.     Second, some of the ensuing discussion following Tom's presentation questioned whether Mercedes, or for that matter anyone in the automotive industry, has really questioned the validity of the current business model for producing automobiles.  As a result, the implementation of I.T. support for Mercedes did not challenge the basic fundamental question, are we really doing the right thing in light of the customer push for Build-to-Order?  While the tactical and operational levels were on display, Mr. Tyrrell will be focusing on the strategic process to help us arrive at the method of determining the "best" way. 

3.     Third, for those of you who are contemplating CSCP certification, the fourth module, Using Information Technology to Enable Supply Chain Management describes the importance of I.T.  in enabling a fundamental shift in manufacturing technology.  However, for that shift to take place, organizations have to be prepared to understand the process of using I.T. to support their mission, their goals, and their objectives.  Mr Tyrrell's presentation can give us practical insight.

Mr. Tyrrell has managed many successful large and small scale implementation and business systems improvement strategies and has exemplary team building and facilitation skills. The combination of quality, sales, operations, materials and information technology management experience provides a basis for effective management and communication from the boardroom to the shop floor.  

We look forward to seeing all of you in April.   

TJ Tyrrell 

TJ Tyrrell CPIM, CSCP, has over 25 years experience in supply chain management and information systems. Currently, he is a Principal at Infor Global Solutions. Before joining Infor, TJ provided 3^rd Party Logistics Services to manufacturing organizations, developed and implemented business solutions at ERP and supply chain software providers, and managed information systems, customer service, materials and distribution at electrical and equipment and machine manufacturers. He is a certified Quality Management Instructor using the Philip Crosby Quality Education System and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Michigan, and a Master of Science in Manufacturing Management from Kettering University.