Abstract

Boeing's C-17 Stuffed Tailcone Team earned first place in the 2007 International Team Excellence competition for eliminating hazards associated with installation of the tailcone. The team used quality tools and methods to identify root causes of unsafe conditions. Data was analyzed to develop solutions, and to select the final solution, the team brainstormed to give stakeholders an opportunity for input. Lean value stream mapping allowed the team to evaluate the potential solution?s ability to meet goals. Tangible results include a reduction of man-hours per aircraft, a return on investment greater than 4.5 to 1, and savings of more than $900,000 over the life of the program. In addition, improvements were seen in employee morale, customer satisfaction, and employee trust and satisfaction. A sidebar article gives an insider?s view of the project.