MEMORANDUM
To: Chief Operating Officer
From: Organization Consultant
Date: 28 March 2011
Subject: BRIEFING ON THE HARLEY DAVIDSON TOUR
INTRODUCTION
Having attended the group tour on the Soft ail facility of Harley Davidson on March 3rd, a world class manufacturer of motor bikes, I would like to highlight my findings as follows
FINDINGS
The company is making changes in terms of standardization, employee empowerment, and use of state of the art technology and focusing on the safety of both the employees and customers.
QUALITY MANAGEMENT * The company focuses on customization where different configurations are achieved using a single assembly line. * The employees are encouraged to think and make relevant decisions to improve efficiency. * The use of hand guards to protect the paint and for scratch free removal. * The ranks are wrapped up in foam to prevent dents.
INVENTORY MANAGEMENT * Harley Davidson plans on acquiring SAP to effectively manage its inventory. * The SAP system helps in keeping track of inventory from A to C. * Inventory is classified as A, B and C depending on the value parts needed. * Inventory system contains information regarding every item. * The use of Just in Time as an inventory management system reduces material handling and enables quick processing of shipments.
HUMAN RESOURCE STRATEGY * Focused on team training classes for good documentation of production work.
PROCESS STRATEGY * There are computer screens which are used to display work instructions to its operators. * The paint is located at the centre of the plant and sealed to avoid contamination. * The restriction of forklifts to one area to protect pedestrians. * Uses a modular design to make different designs.

LAYOUT STRATEGY * A cafeteria is being built and has the following features: a big open yard, new