Client Success
Stories
We Do,
Stories Speak
Client success stories provide insights into how Kepner-Tregoe consulting and training services resulted in measurable improvements in targeted KPIs.
Client success stories are organized by industry, but many are relevant across industries because they illustrate dramatic results based on the application of analytic thinking to the problems, plans and decisions made by individuals and teams in our increasingly digitized and changing business environment.
A Rapid Solution Preserves Revenue & Reduces Cost
Challenge
The opportunity to use the new KT approach arose at a plant when a recurring overheating problem developed in a compressor that fluidizes Cu-Al catalyst inside a reactor and recycles unconverted gases. The compressor was shutdown as a safety measure while the overheating problem was resolved.
Result
The compressor was brought online quickly, minimizing expensive downtime. Shutdowns can quickly reach $1 million in lost revenues. This was the first of many successful applications of KT process that have proved valuable in avoiding costly recurring problems, pursuing ongoing improvements and making cost-saving modifications.
Network Rail
Challenge
When new cables showed poor insulation resistance readings on the final installation test, up to 1000m of cable had to be replaced in several locations. Some projects had to pay for replacement cables, doubling costs - others delayed installation, slipping project timescales. The cable distributor had to test cables on site before Network Rail allowed their use. The quality issue presented in poor readings, deformation of the outer cable sheath, or deformation of the inner conductor.
Result
- Preventing defective product at a supplier site is challenging, but auditing with KT Problem Analysis provides assurance that existing quality issues are resolved properly. - Risk of quality issues for £17 million worth of cable reduced - Supplier’s ability to find root cause confirmed - Future recurrences avoided - Proper corrective actions taken
Foil in the Brake Valve Inlet Filters
Challenge
When reports of "spongy" parking brakes on cargo planes began, it was not a threat to safety or service. But with growing frequency, maintenance checks revealed what appeared to be pieces of foil in the filters that keep the hydraulic fluid clean. The foil particles trapped in the filter almost blocked the flow of hydraulic fluid, causing the brakes to feel spongy. Early speculation that contract maintenance crews were introducing the foil by not using proper sealing caps during maintenance checks proved to be wrong: the root cause of the clogging remained unknown.
Result
After days of troubleshooting failed to find root cause, the problem was referred to the company’s own Kepner-Tregoe rational process experts, Program Leaders (PLs) who are certified to teach and facilitate KT Problem Solving & Decision Making, a structured approach to rapid issue resolution. They quickly developed an effective problem statement and examined the “IS” and “IS NOT” data. It became apparent that they needed to know where else this was happening in the world. Once they had this information, the solution quickly followed.
Too Much Data, Too Many Alternatives
Challenge
An overabundance of information and no time to spare—this modern dilemma challenges us all. But for some time-sensitive activities, the ability to use information quickly and effectively is not just useful—it’s critical. When a quality issue halted production of an expensive, high-demand product, efforts to solve the problem quickly were derailed by the sheer quantity of relevant data and alternatives. A troubleshooting team of the most talented and experienced people in the facility worked for two hours without any clear direction emerging.
Result
During a break, several of the managers on the troubleshooting team recalled a KT workshop they had taken earlier in their careers at other companies. The operations manager still had his workshop materials, so they decided to revisit the systematic KT approach and apply it to their twenty-first century dilemma. The operations manager reviewed the materials and facilitated the group. Using the KT process questions, the team members quickly narrowed down possible causes and eliminated previously plausible ideas. Soon they confirmed that a handling technique caused the problem. After testing a simple, low-cost corrective action, production resumed.
Supply Chain Helps Novartis Capture Market Share
Challenge
When a competitor withdrew a drug from the market, Novartis AG raced to capture market share. To beat the competition, each link in the company’s supply chain had to hold fast under grueling time pressure. The new process was among the most complex ever introduced at NRL in terms of chemistry and equipment.
Result
Program Leader Pat O’Sullivan facilitated a multi-functional troubleshooting team of process chemists and engineers, the plant manager, the production supervisor, and an expert consultant on the new process. From work completed, problems were solved and fixes were made. The supply chain held allowing Novartis to beat the competition to market. Sales boomed and market share increased by 20%.
Why KT?
Run More Efficiently
KT will help you to clarify and remove recurring and
high-impact issues, supporting smoother and more
cost-efficient business operation.
Confidence Under Pressure
KT's unique critical thinking methods are designed to
support you in situations of maximum stress. When it
really matters that you find the best solution, the KT
toolkit is proven to deliver.
Process Plus Experience
KT consultants have a wealth of experience in
supporting clients use of the KT methods in a wide
variety of industries and situations. We can help you
get the maximum value from deploying the KT
toolkit.
Our Experts Are Always Ready to Help
- North America
- Europe
- Asia
- Japan
We are experts in:
Contact Us
For inquiries, details, or a proposal!