A tool to improve training and operational effectiveness in remanufacturing

Abstract

Remanufacturing, a process of returning used products to at least original performance specification from the customers' perspective and giving them warranties at least equal to that of new equivalents, is regarded as a vital strategy in waste management and environmentally conscious manufacturing. The practice is hindered by a lack of remanufacturing knowledge and a paucity of readily available remanufacturing tools and techniques. The current paper outlines the elements of remanufacturing and presents a tool in the form of a process model developed via the systems perspective using a practitioner-based research approach. Remanufacturers and academics examined the tool for replication logic and found it valid. The validation techniques used include the ‘review method’ and practical use in organizations. The assessment criteria were the tool's sufficiency, clarity and usability in addressing the needs of academics and remanufacturers. Its key advantage is in reducing risk in remanufacturing by improving education, training and management in its operational processes.

Keywords:

• Remanufacturing tool
• Model
• Environmentally conscious manufacturing
• Operational effectiveness

Acknowledgements

The author would like to thank the case study companies, Steve Childe and Mark Errington of the University of Exeter, for their comments.