Smoothly pass the parcel: implementing the theory of swift, even flow

Abstract

This research examines the application of the Theory of Swift, Even Flow (TSEF) by a distribution company to improve the performance of its processes for parcels. TSEF was deployed by the company after experiencing lean improvement fatigue and diminishing returns from the time and effort invested. This case study combined quantitative and qualitative approaches to develop a good understanding of the operation. This approach enabled the business to utilise Discrete Event Simulation (DES), which facilitated the implementation of TSEF. From this study, the development of a novel DES application revealed the primacy of process variation and throughput time, key factors in TSEF, in driving improvements. The derived DES approach is reproducible and demonstrates its utility with production improvement frameworks. TSEF, through the visualisations and analysis provided by DES, broadened the scope of improvements to an enterprise level, therefore assisting the business managers in driving forward when lean improvement techniques stagnated. The impact of the research is not limited to the theoretical contribution, as the combination of DES and TSEF led to significant managerial insights on how to overcome obstacles and substantiate change.