Always on the lookout for innovative practice and new technologies, TES have this past year implemented QR coding as part of the company’s internal quality strategy. The novel approach to tracking and tracing the progress of internal processes has been ground-breaking in the way that TES do things internally.
When undertaking a task (such as design, fabrication, testing or commissioning) each engineer scans the QR code and completes a Quality checklist, which corresponds to each contract number. From this, the Quality team can assess how much time is spent on each task and what areas of concern have been raised. These can vary from internal communication to external supply chain issues. Not only has the system provided direct feedback to processes that are working effectively, but more importantly shines a light on those processes that are underdeveloped and inefficient.
The results of the quality coding have in turn implemented change internally. Shortfalls can be identified more efficiently, through assessing the results of the (very simple) quality feedback forms submitted by all members of the contract team. This form is completed every time the QR code is scanned, just prior to each engineer undertaking a particular task.
The idea came from Electrical Design Manager, Craig Downey who noticed a deficit in the internal feedback system. Craig found that hours could potentially be lost on a job (thus costing the company money), however it would be difficult to pin-point exactly why this was the case. It was apparent that a system had to be implemented to pinpoint areas of underperformance. This is when the QR Scanning system was introduced.
The QR scanning system prompts each of the team members to pinpoint an issue of concern or non-conformance. Currently, any ongoing issues on a specific contract can be identified instantaneously through the QR quality control system. Since the implementation of QR Scanning, TES have alleviated glitches in the supply chain, internal communications, design and manufacturing processes. In turn, quality processes have become more accountable, streamlined and efficient.
Craig Downey, Electrical Design Manager commented, “The QR system has benefitted the internal work process exponentially. It is not about attributing blame, but embracing traceability, accountability and using this information to improve.” Craig added, “We hope to implement QR coding throughout many other aspects of the business to improve processes, essentially for the benefit of the Client and end-user.”
