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HTDC-MEP and Steven Lee Designs, A Formula for Success

Honolulu— Last November, jewelry designer and manufacturer Steven Lee was introduced to HTDC-MEP (formerly HI MEP). This introduction has provided Steven Lee Designs measurable benefits in production efficiency and reduced levels in inventory. For Steven Lee Designs the relationship with HTDC-MEP has been a success.

High quality, unbiased advice and assistance were factors that led Steven Lee to sign up for HTDC-MEP’ Lean Manufacturing workshop. In the workshop, participants experience the power of lean and the changes and benefits of moving from a traditional to a lean manufacturing environment by learning about the eight wastes in manufacturing and how to eliminate them. Innovative Solutions assists small and medium size manufacturers in becoming more globally competitive by applying the latest manufacturing and management technologies. HTDC-MEP offers strategies and support helping manufacturers gain an advantage over competitors. From process improvements and worker training to business practices and applications of information technology, the staff at Innovative Solutions offers solutions for small to medium sized businesses.

During a life changing sailing expedition to French Polynesia, Steven Lee discovered the beauty of Tahitian Black Pearls. Captivated by their uniqueness, Steven returned to Hawaii, chartered a boat and ventured back to the South Sea in search of the Tahitian Pearls that would make him a leader in the jewelry industry. After studying press design and minting operations, Steven founded the Honolulu Mint in 1985. Since then, Lee has engineered and built several minting presses and his work has resulted in national and international recognition. Strategically taking Steven Lee Designs and the Honolulu Mint into the 21st century, HTDC-MEP is committed to their continued success.

HTDC-MEP provides a range—and depth—of services based on the needs of their client’s firm. In the case of Steven Lee Designs, Project Manager Kathy McKenzie began with an assessment of the company’s current operations and opportunities for improvement. Following the assessment, Kathy prepared an evaluation and presented her findings to Steven Lee. “The folks at Steven Lee Designs have been terrific to work with. They’re open to new ideas, recognize their strengths and get help with areas they have identified as wanting to improve. It’s been a joy working with them,” said Kathy.

The relationship between HTDC-MEP and the people of Steven Lee Designs has been so successful that Steven registered all of his employees to attend a recent Lean 101 workshop. Melanie Boudar, General Manager of Steven Lee Designs sums up the key to HTDC-MEP’ success, “these are real people with real solutions.” Boudar continues, “the people of HTDC-MEP are coming from experience, they are applying that valuable experience to your particular business.” Since the lean manufacturing workshop, the results at Steven Lee Designs are apparent, “we’ve seen increased efficiency among our coordinating departments and in certain areas inventory levels have been reduced,” said Boudar.

“I’m impressed with the manufacturing theory and experience of the people at Innovative Solutions as well as their ability to practically apply these skills in real life,” said Steven Lee, President and CEO of Steven Lee Designs.

HTDC-MEP works directly with island manufacturers to provide expertise and services tailored to their most critical needs. Innovative Solutions is an affiliate of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST MEP), and is committed to meeting the strategic needs of small and mid-sized manufactures. For more information on HTDC-MEP call 261-9358. Information on Steven Lee Designs can be found at their website at www.stevenlee.net or by calling (800) 359-6468.

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