Six Sigma Donuts

(Dyadem: Toronto) -- Dyadem, a provider of quality life cycle management and risk life cycle management software, has helped Maidstone Bakeries bring the world a better donut. In the process, Maidstone has saved hundreds of thousands of dollars through the use of Six Sigma methodology and Dyadem’s FMEA Pro-7 Risk Management Software.

Maidstone produces more than 60 million donuts per week and wanted to ensure top donut quality while simultaneously making its operations as efficient as possible. Using Six Sigma in conjunction with risk management software helped Maidstone reduce costs and improve quality at its 400,000 square foot facility in Brantford, Ontario.

“Six Sigma is a standard, disciplined methodology and Dyadem’s FMEA Pro-7 gave us an easy and painless way to take this approach—helping us solve problems using data rather than gut feel,” says Brett Kyle, continuous improvement training manager at Maidstone and a Six Sigma Master Black Belt. “Since the implementation, we’ve significantly reduced costs and clearly shifted to the next level of quality. FMEA-Pro showed us new ways to solve old problems, by helping us find the root [problems] and develop new procedures to address them.”

Previously, Maidstone had relied heavily on informal processes based on Excel spreadsheets and scattered paperwork. By using the software’s management features the company was able to document and retain Six Sigma across the Brantford operations using a single program.

“By identifying areas of production waste [such as] leftover dough and oil, Maidstone eliminated 80 percent of the waste, improved its environmental efficiencies, and saved significant dollars in the process,” says Kevin North, president and CEO of Dyadem. “While many companies avoid changing their quality management methodologies because of the perceived investments in time and money, Maidstone has proven that the transition has already paid for itself tenfold.”

For more information, visit www.dyadem.com/media/press_releases/pr_112007.htm

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