Methodology

Trommer & Associates, Inc. provides you with a unique team of experienced managers who have proven their expertise in their field. This expertise is provided on a contract basis for firms which do not have full time staff members with a strong knowledge base in the area of warehousing, distribution and manufacturing systems planning.

Each service is performed following a systematic project methodology which consists of four phases. These services provide cost effective, practical solutions to suit each client's specific needs. A growing list of new and repeat clients has resulted from this approach. Further support is provided by detailers, CAD operators and specification writers who are used as needed to provide the best possible level of service and accuracy.

The four phases of work utilized to develop and implement each project are as follows:

PHASE I - Concept Development

PHASE II - Concept Drawings & Performance Specifications

PHASE III - Competitive Bid Procedures And Equipment Acquisition

PHASE IV - Implementation

These phases include, but are not limited to the items listed below:

Phase I - Concept Development

Methodology

Purpose: This strategic planning phase is designed to evaluate the client’s distribution needs through the use of a project questionnaire and one-on-one meetings with management.

Benefits: The client gains a thorough understanding of operational needs and wants, ensuring that optimal operational flexibility and performance can be achieved and a facility layout can be developed.

Services include:

  • Operational Review
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Location Analysis
  • Long Range Planning
  • Data Collection
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Cost Development
  • Manpower Requirements
  • Economic Justification

Phase II - Concept Drawings & Performance Specifications

Methodology

Purpose: This phase is dedicated to creating complete detailed equipment layout drawings based upon the approved concept developed in Phase I. Phase II will also include the preparation of an outline of operational procedures and material flow, and the development of performance specifications for new equipment purchases.

Benefits: The client is introduced to the established approach and methodology that will be required to fully implement the plan. This is the final step to receive approval and appropriate financial funds based on a predicted ROI and productivity efficiencies.

Services include:

  • Plot Plan
  • Facility Layouts
  • System Layout Drawings
  • Equipment Layout & Elevations
  • Performance Specifications
  • Building Outline Criteria
  • Software System Description
  • Operational Procedures

Phase III - Competitive Bid Procedures

Purpose: The objective of this phase is to establish baseline design criteria for all suppliers and vendors of specific material handling equipment. This allows for an un-biased review of the buying process, which ensures that the client is purchasing and maintaining the performance specifications of each specific product.

Benefits: The competitive bidding process allows the client to develop a true evaluation of the material handling equipment, with little deviation from vendors. Additionally, alternate concepts that may have an overall impact on the design criteria conceived during the Phase I and II of this process can be revealed and explored.

Services include:

  • Interview Equipment Suppliers
  • Visit Suppliers Facilities
  • Selection of Bidders
  • Prepare Bid Documentation
  • Release Bid Documents
  • Review and Summary of Vendor Bid Documents
  • Visit Existing Equipment Installations
  • Select Qualified Suppliers

Phase IV - Implementation

Methodology

Purpose: The final phase is to oversee the scheduling and implementation of the equipment and to ensure that all systems function as intended. These services include full time, on site project management to handle project coordination and to ensure that all equipment complies with the specifications. We also check that all equipment is installed in a professional manner, and thoroughly tested to ensure safety and performance.

Benefits: Relieves the client from the daily activity and management of multiple vendors, tradesman and scheduling issues that take place on a daily basis. We routinely schedule and maintain project meetings to ensure that building enhancements coordinate with the material handling system installation. We also complete project site notes, system punch lists, and system testing to ensure the specifications are met as agreed to by all parties.

Services include:

  • Establish Implementation Schedule
  • Initiate Equipment Purchases
  • Coordination with Project A/E
  • Review Building Drawings
  • Review Equipment Drawings
  • Coordinate Software System
  • Schedule Equipment Installation
  • Equipment Testing
  • Personnel Training
  • System Start-up & Commissioning

During the implementation phase of a project, it is essential that the field work is carefully scheduled and that the equipment installation be reviewed as it progresses to ensure compliance with the performance specifications. This procedure reduces the need for field changes and cost additions during the installation period.

Trommer & Associates provides extensive experience in the implementation of systems and recommendations resulting from the concept development phase of each project.

The project manager assigned has the responsibility to oversee the scheduling and implementation of each project to ensure that all systems function as intended. These services include full time, on site project management to ensure project coordination. Your project manager will monitor the installation of all equipment to ensure that it complies with the specifications and is installed in a professional manner. All equipment will be thoroughly tested for safety and performance.

These important phases of work provide on time and on budget start up for each project, reducing costs and providing a solid framework within which your project should go off without a hitch.