Paint’s Moving to a LEANER Color Identification System

Jarett Gilbert, in Lean session #6, successfully demonstrated the use of critical thinking, time management, and exceptional manipulation of resources as he presented an initiative that includes a quicker way to identify specific paint colors and thus, the formula to create said color. Joining Jarett for the conversation were Shawn, Tori, and Larry!

It currently takes six steps to find the Matthews code number for the right formula to create a specific PMS or Pantone color. Soon, it will take just 2 steps. Jarett’s original concept is to create a spreadsheet of commonly used color codes for easier reference.

But wait, there’s more! With the addition of help from the MIS – DMS team, eventually, when sales places orders, specific color requests will automatically refer to the right color formula for that order (i.e.-specific Penn State Blue PMS color would show up as a Matthews color #). Eventually, the DMS system will allow Jarett to type in the volume needed and automatically print out the label, saving even more time!

This could easily save up to a 10 hours a month in computer work/research, allowing the paint department to paint more signs in less time! It will take roughly 4 weeks for this to be implemented.

End Result: The potential for an even faster turnaround time from order to shipment! Now that’s LEAN!