Angela Thurman

Why Some Teams Push Back – and How to Help Them Move Forward For many organizations, implementing 5S is a gateway into Lean thinking. The method is deceptively simple—Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain—yet its effects can be transformative. 5S is often the first hands-on improvement employees experience, especially in manufacturing or warehouse […]

At the close of every project, whether it was a resounding success or a tough climb, there’s a treasure trove of insights waiting to be uncovered. Yet too often, those golden nuggets of experience are boxed away in forgotten folders or siloed in the minds of team members who’ve already moved on to the next

In the world of complex product development and manufacturing, few relationships are as crucial, and as potentially fraught, as the one between engineering and manufacturing. One team is focused on innovation, precision, and design specifications. The other is charged with scalability, cost-efficiency, and real-world execution. When they work in harmony, the result is a seamless

Even the most meticulously planned projects are vulnerable to change. Whether sparked by new stakeholder demands, unforeseen obstacles, or emerging opportunities, change is a natural part of the project lifecycle. However, when changes go unmanaged or undocumented, they can quietly derail your timeline, inflate your budget, and erode trust among team members. Two culprits we

Factory upgrades and equipment installations are high-stakes endeavors that demand careful coordination, rigorous planning, and technical know-how. These projects often carry significant implications for production schedules, supply chain continuity, and operational safety. At the heart of a successful upgrade or installation is a strong project manager, someone who not only keeps timelines and budgets in

In manufacturing projects, success isn’t just about delivering on time or staying within budget. It’s about delivering value. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) provide a clear, data-driven lens through which manufacturers can evaluate the health and direction of their projects, ensuring alignment with strategic goals, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. But with so many potential metrics

Project bottlenecks are frustrating, costly, and often deeply rooted in processes that haven’t been reviewed in years. Whether it’s stalled approvals, repeated rework, or production slowdowns, bottlenecks can derail even the most well-planned initiatives. At Thurman Co, we frequently see project teams struggle with recurring delays — but the good news is, there’s a methodical

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing environment, disruptions to the supply chain are no longer a matter of “if” but “when.” From global pandemics and geopolitical instability to raw material shortages and natural disasters, the pressures on supply chains are mounting. In this climate of uncertainty, one role stands out as a stabilizing force: the project manager.

In today’s fast-moving business environment, organizations must continually evolve to stay competitive. Whether it’s adopting new technology, restructuring teams, or entering new markets, change is inevitable. Yet, the success of any change initiative depends not just on a brilliant strategy—but on effective execution. That’s where Dr. John Kotter’s 8-Step Change Management Process shines. This proven