QFD Approach in Design of Work Facilities

Oct 13, 2025 by magicalceylontours.com 103 views

The Design of Work Facilities Using Quality Function Deployment (QFD) and Macro Ergonomic Analysis and Design (MEAD) at PT. Sumatera Timberindo Industry

Introduction

In today's fast-paced and competitive business environment, companies are constantly seeking ways to improve their operational efficiency, productivity, and employee welfare. One of the key areas of focus is the design of work facilities, which plays a crucial role in ensuring the comfort, safety, and well-being of employees. This article discusses the application of Quality Function Deployment (QFD) and Macro Ergonomic Analysis and Design (MEAD) in designing work facilities at PT. Sumatera Timberindo Industry, a company engaged in the manufacture of doors.

The Problem Statement

PT. Sumatera Timberindo Industry has seven work stations, each with its own unique requirements and challenges. However, one of the work stations, the finishing work station, poses a significant problem. The operator at this station is required to work in a standing position for eight hours without adequate facilities, leading to excessive workload in the back and leg muscles, inhibited blood flow, and accumulation of lactic acid, resulting in extraordinary fatigue. This situation not only affects the operator's comfort but also impacts the overall productivity and efficiency of the production process.

QFD Approach in Design of Work Facilities

To address the problems encountered at the finishing work station, this research employs the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) method. QFD is a powerful tool that translates the needs of users or workers into technical characteristics of the product or facilities designed. By identifying what the operator wants, the design team can create a work desk that is not only ergonomic but also increases comfort and work efficiency.

Through the QFD process, some of the characteristics desired by the operator are identified, such as:

Adjusted table height to reduce strain on the back and legs
Comfortable material to use, reducing the risk of fatigue and discomfort
Additional space for putting equipment, increasing productivity and efficiency

The result of this stage is the specifications of the work table designed with fixed feet, iron frames, bases from foam and skin, and attractive colors. The endurance of the table is expected to be at least three years in order to meet the needs of long-term use.

Mead Integration in Design Socialization

After designing a work desk with the QFD approach, the next step is to socialize the design results to all components of the company using Macro Ergonomic Analysis and Design (MEAD). MEAD aims to ensure that the design that has been made according to the needs and limits of all users at work.

This socialization process involves discussions with management and operators to get feedback on the design that has been made. The involvement of all parties in this process is the key to ensuring that the design of work facilities not only meets ergonomic needs but can also be received and used effectively by the operator.

Results and Benefits of Design

The results of the design of the work table at the finishing station show that the specifications developed are able to meet operational needs while increasing work comfort. With an ergonomic design, it is expected that heavy workloads can be reduced, thereby reducing the potential for fatigue and health risks in operators.

The improvement of this work facility not only has a positive impact on workers' comfort but also increases productivity. When workers feel comfortable, they tend to work more efficiently and of high quality. In addition, this design supports the creation of a better work environment, which in turn can increase job satisfaction and employee retention.

Conclusion

By using the QFD and MEAD approach in the design of work facilities, PT. Sumatera Timberindo Industry can not only improve the efficiency of the production process but also maintain employee welfare, which is a valuable asset for the company. The design of work facilities is a critical aspect of ensuring the comfort, safety, and well-being of employees, and the application of QFD and MEAD can provide a comprehensive and effective solution to this challenge.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this research, the following recommendations are made:

The use of QFD and MEAD in the design of work facilities should be adopted by other companies to improve the efficiency and productivity of their production processes.
The design of work facilities should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that they meet the changing needs and requirements of employees.
The involvement of all stakeholders, including management, operators, and designers, is essential in the design and implementation of work facilities.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations, including:

The study was conducted in a single company, and the results may not be generalizable to other companies.
The study focused on the design of work facilities, and other aspects of employee welfare, such as training and development, were not considered.
The study was limited to a single work station, and the results may not be applicable to other work stations.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on the following areas:

The application of QFD and MEAD in other industries and companies.
The development of a comprehensive framework for the design of work facilities that takes into account the needs and requirements of employees.
The evaluation of the effectiveness of QFD and MEAD in improving employee welfare and productivity.
Q&A: Designing Work Facilities Using Quality Function Deployment (QFD) and Macro Ergonomic Analysis and Design (MEAD)

Introduction

In our previous article, we discussed the application of Quality Function Deployment (QFD) and Macro Ergonomic Analysis and Design (MEAD) in designing work facilities at PT. Sumatera Timberindo Industry. In this article, we will answer some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to the design of work facilities using QFD and MEAD.

Q: What is Quality Function Deployment (QFD)?

A: Quality Function Deployment (QFD) is a powerful tool that translates the needs of users or workers into technical characteristics of the product or facilities designed. It is a method of deploying the voice of the customer into the design process.

Q: What is Macro Ergonomic Analysis and Design (MEAD)?

A: Macro Ergonomic Analysis and Design (MEAD) is a method of analyzing and designing work systems to ensure that they meet the needs and limits of all users at work. It involves the involvement of all stakeholders, including management, operators, and designers, in the design and implementation of work facilities.

Q: Why is it important to design work facilities using QFD and MEAD?

A: Designing work facilities using QFD and MEAD is important because it ensures that the facilities meet the needs and requirements of employees, which can lead to improved productivity, efficiency, and employee welfare.

Q: What are the benefits of using QFD and MEAD in designing work facilities?

A: The benefits of using QFD and MEAD in designing work facilities include:

Improved productivity and efficiency
Increased employee welfare and job satisfaction
Reduced risk of fatigue and health problems
Improved work environment and employee retention

Q: How can QFD and MEAD be applied in other industries and companies?

A: QFD and MEAD can be applied in other industries and companies by following the same principles and steps as outlined in this article. The key is to involve all stakeholders in the design and implementation process and to ensure that the facilities meet the needs and requirements of employees.

Q: What are the limitations of using QFD and MEAD in designing work facilities?

A: The limitations of using QFD and MEAD in designing work facilities include:

The study was conducted in a single company, and the results may not be generalizable to other companies
The study focused on the design of work facilities, and other aspects of employee welfare, such as training and development, were not considered
The study was limited to a single work station, and the results may not be applicable to other work stations

Q: What are the future research directions for QFD and MEAD in designing work facilities?

A: Future research directions for QFD and MEAD in designing work facilities include:

The application of QFD and MEAD in other industries and companies
The development of a comprehensive framework for the design of work facilities that takes into account the needs and requirements of employees
The evaluation of the effectiveness of QFD and MEAD in improving employee welfare and productivity

Conclusion

Designing work facilities using Quality Function Deployment (QFD) and Macro Ergonomic Analysis and Design (MEAD) is a critical aspect of ensuring the comfort, safety, and well-being of employees. By understanding the principles and benefits of QFD and MEAD, companies can improve the efficiency and productivity of their production processes and maintain employee welfare.