FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2008
For more information, contact:
Dennis M. Bradshaw
Executive Director
Tel: (703) 222-9001
E-Mail: dbradshaw@newhorizonsfoundation.org

New Horizons Foundation Issues Major “Thinking Lean”
Report for HVAC and Sheet Metal Contractors

Chantilly, Virginia… The New Horizons Foundation – An HVAC and Sheet Metal Industry Initiative has issued a comprehensive report and business tool entitled Thinking Lean – Tools for Decreasing Costs and Increasing Profits. This report builds upon the Foundation’s 2004 work on the same subject. The current research moves from a conceptual review of Lean in a number of non-construction industries to hands-on, best Lean practices specific to the HVAC and sheet metal industry.

The leaders of the New Horizons Foundation and its Summit Challenge Council determined that the follow-up work regarding “thinking and working lean” was critical for HVAC and sheet metal contractors as the construction industry becomes increasingly complex. The 2008 Thinking Lean report confirms key findings: Lean works in manufacturing. Lean works in construction, both in field installation and in shop fabrication. As customers become more knowledgeable of Lean, they are demanding Lean applications from their contractors.

Foundation Chair, George “Butch” Welsch launched the report’s distribution and noted, “This work and the resulting business tool is an excellent example of how the Foundation is funding applied research and practices for a real world environment. Applying Lean Thinking can help reduce waste in the office, yard, fabrication area, and in the field. Working Lean will help contractors maximize company resources, maximize productivity, create safer work environments, and reduce losses from accidents.”

For information about the New Horizons Foundation and its Summit Challenge, contact Dennis Bradshaw, Executive Director (703-222-9001).