Time management is especially crucial for business because the expression ‘time is money’ features in so many areas. If you run a brewery, which is of course, a production outfit, you understand that every second counts.
As a matter of fact, a 30-minute production delay can have catastrophic effects on product volume. As a result, time management is one factor that cannot be downplayed.
Now, how do you adequately manage time in your brewery business?
Predict Demand Properly
One of the main determinants of how time is apportioned to various activities in the brewery is the amount of beer that you have to produce within a certain time frame. This would determine whether to cut back on some other areas and focus more attention on production or even whether overtime would be necessary.
Remember to factor in both existing orders that have been confirmed and expected orders. To accurately predict, you could review the history of orders so far or activities around you, such as an upcoming major event.
Review Options for Production
In order to maximize time and cut out bottlenecks, it is crucial to have a production flow mapped out ahead of time, preferably using a flowchart.
This indicates the next step in production, and since everybody knows what is required of them, there would be no delays, and you already know the materials and resources to acquire ahead of time. If you need more hands for improved efficiency, you also know when and how to go about it.
Aim for Efficiency
The most efficient path is usually the best path when it comes to production. This refers to one that maximizes resources while minimizing wastage and uses the brewery’s operation capacity to the maximum.
When aiming for efficiency, it is crucial that everything is put in place and that everybody is in the know as well. Therefore, materials should be available, and staff should be privy to the production plan that maximizes efficiency.
Evaluate
A thorough evaluation is necessary to ensure that the current process is indeed the most efficient in terms of resources and time.
In addition, ensure that a control system is present to highlight any challenges that may arise and provide you with ample time to correct them.
Adapt
If need be, you should be able to adapt to a new plan if necessary. This implies that you should be flexible enough to accommodate any changes.
Similarly, in the event that major problems arise, such as equipment malfunction or breakdown or key workers being unable to continue, proper time management requires having an alternative plan to keep production running.
If you run a brewery and are looking to be more efficient in production, then you should consider a business coach. My name is Todd Eppert, and I’m a certified business coach. I’ve worked with several small businesses in various capacities, particularly multi-site operations management, continuous improvement, supply chain & logistics, and engineering, amongst others. Allow me to draw on this depth to enhance your production efficiency. I look forward to getting started!
