Case Study: Streamlining MOS Tools for Improved Productivity at Summit Fabrication
Summit Fabrication, a manufacturer of custom metal assemblies, had been using a Management Operating System (MOS) with detailed forms, multi-page spreadsheets, and complex dashboards. While the tools were well-intentioned, frontline teams and supervisors often struggled to keep them updated during fast-paced production shifts. As a result, data entry became inconsistent, huddle meetings were bogged down by lengthy reports, and teams spent more time managing paperwork than solving operational problems. Productivity gains from the MOS stalled, and employee engagement with the system declined.
In response, Summit leadership launched a simplification initiative focused on redesigning MOS tools to be more user-friendly and effective. The company reduced the number of data points collected during daily huddles, consolidated complex charts into a single-page visual management board, and simplified action item trackers with clearer formats. Digital dashboards were also streamlined to display only the most critical KPIs, such as hourly plan vs. actual, downtime, and first-pass yield, all presented with simple red/yellow/green indicators.
The impact was significant and immediate. Within six weeks, Summit saw a 14% improvement in daily MOS compliance and a 12% increase in issue resolution speed. Teams spent less time filling out forms and more time discussing and acting on key performance drivers during their huddles. Supervisors noted faster decision-making, as simplified visual boards made it easier to identify trends and trigger immediate corrective actions. The streamlined tools also improved shift handoffs, reducing information gaps between teams and increasing ownership of daily targets.
Culturally, the simplification effort helped reinvigorate the plant’s continuous improvement mindset. Operators and supervisors alike reported feeling less burdened by administrative tasks and more empowered to focus on driving real performance improvements. By keeping MOS tools simple, practical, and easy to maintain, Summit Fabrication removed barriers to engagement, accelerated problem-solving, and created a stronger foundation for sustained productivity growth.