Tips for Starting a New Transport Packaging Program
By Rick LeBlanc
Date Posted: 10/26/2006
Checklist for Top Management Sponsors of Pallet and Container Initiatives
During the Planning Phase
1. Explain the opportunity for changing the supply chain packaging program; begin dialogue with trading partners where appropriate.
2. Help select the right people for the project team and ensure adequate time availability of these resources; provide the needed budget for the design phase.
3. Enlist the support of other senior managers and stakeholders in the project objectives and scope; provide a channel for key managers to provide direction at key decision points in the process.
4. Help the project team select their approach and timeline, and resolve start-up issues for the team.
During the Design Phase
5. Reinforce why the change is happening; help employees understand the business reasons for the change.
6. Listen and respond to feedback from the organization and the supply chain; actively seek input from all levels of management.
7. Create a positive network of conversation about the project with peers and managers at all levels.
8. Provide updates on the project’s progress; let employees know what they can expect and when.
9. Stay engaged and up-to-date on the project; attend key project meetings and training sessions.
10. Keep other senior managers and stakeholders informed on project status and issues; help clear calendars for key decision-making meetings with these stakeholders.
During the Implementation Phase
11. Share the change with all levels in the organization.
12. Listen to resistance and respond to feedback from the organization.
13. Create a positive network of conversation about the project with peers and project stakeholders.
14. Actively participate in implementation planning; stay involved with the project; monitor progress and remove obstacles.
15. Ensure that adequate resources are available or adjust the implementation plan to fit available resources.
16. Engage middle managers in transition planning; define their role for the transition and set clear expectations.
17. Keep other senior managers and stakeholders informed on project status and issues.
18. Recognize behavior and results that are consistent with the change and reward role models.
19. Imbed pallet and container management procedures within job SOPs (standard operating procedures)
Sustain and Renew Phase
20. Take regular inventory to track retention
21. Keep track of broken or unusable pallets or containers repaired or retired
22. Take corrective actions to address high damage rates or lost assets.
23. Plan for continued success as executives change. Jobe notes that the success of a reusable pallet system can often hinge on the influence and enthusiasm of the supporting executive. By ingraining best practices in job SOPs , accurate reporting of ongoing program cost-benefit, and building a supportive culture, the program can enjoy a prolonged life, even while the supporting executive is enjoying retirement.
