James Eastham

Hexavalent Chromium Substitution

From razor thin tool blade coatings to shiny custom motorcycle parts, hexavalent chromium (Hex-chrome) has historically been the coating of choice for a vast array of industrial applications. Hex-chrome has many advantages over other coating alternatives including hardness, corrosion resistance, coefficient of friction, process maturity, and economic factors. Existing Hex-chrome process technologies are simple and well understood in the industry.

PLM Software Selection Model for Project Management Using Hierarchical Decision Modeling With Criteria From PMBOK® Knowledge Areas

This paper presents a methodology for product lifecycle management (plm) software selection utilizing the nine knowledge areas of the project management body of knowledge (pmbok). The methodology utilizes a five process gate approach where the plm offerings are researched, sorted, paired down, evaluated, and implemented. The primary decision model utilizes hierarchical decision modeling (hdm). Prioritizations are assigned to the pmbok knowledge areas utilizing a pair-wise comparison survey and then assessed across the different plm system offerings. The proposed decision methodology is meant to serve only as a guide to assist with selection of plm software from a project management perspective. To validate the model, several case studies are presented that apply the selection methodology to different industries: semiconductor, information technology (it), and automotive supply.

Quality Culture Selection for New Product Development (NPD) Organizations Using Hierarchical Decision Modeling (HDM)

Many companies implement quality systems and subsequently the corresponding cultures in an effort to improve product or system quality and increase profits. Selecting which quality culture to employ is often difficult as the differences between the cultures are not always clear. Companies often commit to a quality culture without fully understanding the benefits and drawbacks a certain system might have to different parts of the business, including New Product Development (NPD). In this paper we present a Hierarchical Decision Model (HDM) aimed at assisting senior managers in the selection of the right quality culture that specifically improves NPD factors. We apply the HDM to three different companies, each from different business sectors and with distinct goals. Three quality cultures are compared: Lean, Six Sigma, and Theory of Constraints (ToC). Recommendations are formulated based on the model output. We discuss the results and which quality culture might be best for each company to endorse.