Set Up World Class Solutions (WCS) was set up in 1992 and immediately began working with FAS and EI, the state agencies tasked with training and development to develop distance-learning materials for Irish industry. We developed materials on a range of technical subjects including total quality management (TQM), statistical process control (SPC), Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) and business process re-engineering (BPR). We also provided training and consultancy services for multinational companies in these areas. In 1993 we worked with University College Galway (UCG) to develop materials for degree courses in the college. We also began working with multinational companies on the introduction of Multiskilling. This involves the widening of an employee’s skill base so they are able to carry out a range of tasks without needing technical assistance from others. The Virtual Workplace In 1995 we worked with a team of specialists and several semi-state bodies to develop an expert support-system for small and medium size enterprises (SMEs). A pilot project took place in the north of England and used video-conferencing technology to provide remote technical support. The project was described in a paper published in “The Virtual Workplace”. While continuing to support the management and technical development in multinational companies we also produced a series of web-based training modules for the Irish Management Institute (IMI). These provided essential management knowledge and support for small Irish indigenous companies. We also developed a separate module on creative problem solving and an evaluation instrument for management capabilities. In 1997 WCS founder Pat Hough wrote a book called “Adventures in Total Quality Management” to help introduce TQM techniques to a wider audience. The book was based in a fictitious company and demonstrated how internal politics and inertia can defeat change programmes unless active support is given from the top of the organization. RedLine FMEA In 1998 we developed an intensive version of Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) for highly critical applications. This was called “RedLine FMEA” and was used by companies supplying hardware to industries like banking and insurance. A year later, in 1999 we developed a dedicated software programme to support the technique. In the following years we continued to work with both indigenous and multinational companies in Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe. We used a range of techniques to reduce costs and improve performance in the operations and business areas. We also continued our work with several universities including the development of a project management module for the University of Limerick (UCL). WCS Graphic Documentation In 2004 we introduced “WCS graphic documentation” (WGD) to clients who needed technical support in their operations, engineering and maintenance areas. WGD involves the analysis of a process, the capturing of relevant operations and technical information and the distribution of this information in graphical form. 3D Presentations In the early months of 2006 we began researching the use of graphical techniques to support companies who needed to make a persuasive case to potential customers. Building on their experience with WGD we developed the additional capability to build 3D animated graphic presentations and developed a new framework to evaluate and capture the key elements of the business message. This framework used a personality profile for key members of the audience leading to the selection of appropriate visual metaphors to ensure the message is understood and retained. CAT Analysis In 2008 we launched CAT analysis to capture and transfer knowledge and reduce the complexity and the consequent problems in business processes. The technique is based on our experience working with value stream mapping, BPR, lean operations and FMEA. However, we have succeeded in reducing the time needed by simplifying the workflow. CAT analysis is one of the techniques used to capture, encode and distribute essential knowledge in all technical areas within an organization. Contact Details World Class Solutions 00-353-21-4373283 |
