In my heady ivory tower days I was exposed to “Lean Manufacturing” processes and “Just in Time” production. Studying industrial history with an eye towards business gave me the background necessary to take pieces of the Toyota production model and map them onto a print on demand model for publishing. “Lean Manufacturing” and “Just in Time” production heavily depend on interchangeable parts, quick assembly, good distribution channels.
Taichii Ohno and Shigeo Shingo of the Toyota company started with the Ford assembly line production model, which was based on Eli Whitney’s model of the cotton gin and gun manufacturing. Toyota focused on producing cars in order to arrive “Just in Time” for the next phase of development. Toyota recognized the benefit of not having car stock standing idle while awaiting the miraculous order placement. Each car was ordered and paid for as needed. Toyota also recognized the value of its employees. By empowering the employee with team development and manufacturing centered in a nuclear cell, Toyota created a synergy that produced cars not only on time, but with the most excellent quality. By reducing the setup time required and keeping groups intact, Toyota created an environment that benefitted its employees and its bottom line.
French Creek Press Ltd made the decision to use print-on-demand technology in order to address several problems in the publishing industry. While our predecessors are quite successful publishing known authors, it is hard for a new author to publish without resorting to self-publishing. Self-publishing has its place, especially for the entrepreneur. However, most authors want to write, not market and distribute. French Creek Press offers authors the traditional pre-print services of major publishing houses while using the “Just in Time” philosophy for print and distribution. Low inventory and pre-paid orders create an environment where both the author and French Creek Press benefit, a win-win solution for everyone.
By compiling a team of the author, editor, layout artist, and book designer, French Creek Press creates the nuclear cell to turn out a quality production. We reduce the amount of time needed to produce the digital book using state of the art computer systems and Adobe Creative Suite software. “Just in Time” production and distribution is through Lightning Source.
A short disclaimer, I am a Toyota fan. I admit that I once owned a Volkswagen, but that was before I met the Toyota. And once, when I moved across the world and had to buy a car, I bought an old beatup Volvo because that’s what I could afford. As soon as I was able to sell the Volvo, I acquired another Toyota. Toyota is so strong in my family that most family members have at least one Toyota in the driveway.
