In the cutthroat world of shipbuilding, staying ahead of the curve is no easy feat. But a recent study published in the journal ‘Machines’ might just give European shipyards the edge they need. Led by Zoran Kunkera from Leaera Ltd. for Business Consulting in Zagreb, Croatia, the research dives deep into how Lean tools can revolutionize shipbuilding processes, especially when it comes to custom, high-value vessels.
So, what’s the big deal about Lean tools? Well, imagine trying to build a complex cruise ship with up to 3000 suppliers and subcontractors involved. It’s like herding cats, right? That’s where Lean comes in. It’s all about streamlining processes, eliminating waste, and improving efficiency. Think of it as giving your shipbuilding process a good spring clean, but with a focus on making it more agile and responsive to change.
Kunkera and his team have developed a model that’s tailor-made for the unique challenges of European shipbuilding. They’ve looked at the nitty-gritty of shipbuilding processes and come up with a way to implement Lean tools that’s both practical and effective. And the best part? It’s not just about making things more efficient. It’s also about making them more sustainable and climate-neutral. As Kunkera puts it, “The model theoretically results not only in the successful closure of the Lean transformation process in an optimal time and at low costs but also in the simultaneous continuous improvement of shipbuilding processes during the implementation period.”
But why does this matter for maritime professionals? Well, for starters, it could mean big savings. We’re talking up to 50% improvement in business performance indicators. That’s not just pocket change; that’s a game-changer. And it’s not just about the money. It’s also about staying competitive in a market dominated by Asian shipyards. By embracing Lean tools, European shipyards can offer more personalized, high-value vessels that meet the demands of a changing market.
Take, for example, the English government’s strategy for transforming shipbuilding into a smart and green industry. They’re investing over 4 billion pounds in new technologies, professional training, and research activities. That’s a clear sign that the future of shipbuilding is Lean and green. And with Kunkera’s model, European shipyards are well-positioned to lead the charge.
But it’s not just about the big players. The model is designed to be adaptable, so it could work for shipyards of all sizes. And it’s not just about shipbuilding, either. The principles could be applied to other industries with similar characteristics, like aerospace or defense.
So, what’s the next step? Kunkera and his team are calling for more experimental analysis to validate the model in real-world conditions. They want to see how it performs in the operational environment and how it can be adapted to different business organizations. It’s an exciting time for shipbuilding, and this research is just the beginning. As Kunkera and his team continue to refine their model, the future of shipbuilding looks leaner, greener, and more competitive than ever. So, buckle up, maritime professionals. The Lean revolution is here, and it’s setting sail.