What is 4M in manufacturing? How to apply the 4M rule effectively

4M in manufacturing plays an important role in the production process, determining product performance and quality. So to better understand the concept of 4M in production and how to apply 4M effectively, let's learn more about it with 1C Vietnam in the following content.

1. What is 4M in manufacturing?

4M in manufacturing is a rule for identifying problems, phenomena and grouping factors that affect the production management process. The 4M Rule helps find the cause of problems to improve quality and increase productivity based on the group of basic resources in the factory including people (Man), methods (Method), machines (Machine). and raw materials (Material).

1.1. Man - Human resources

Of the four factors, human resources (Man) is the most important because it has a direct impact on product quality. People, including all members from senior management to managers and workers, play an important role in creating profits and shaping the future of the business. The capacity and quality of each person and the connection between members directly affect the quality of work.

1.2. Material - Raw materials

One of the input factors that contribute to the composition and creation of product quality is raw materials. Therefore, the quality of raw materials has a direct impact on the quality of the final product. Ensuring uniformity and standardization in raw materials is a fundamental factor to ensure stable product quality.

1.3. Machine - Equipment and machinery

Machinery, equipment, and tools of a business are essential elements used in every factory, workshop, and enterprise. The modernity of a business's machinery, equipment and technological processes has a great impact on product quality, especially for businesses with mass production processes.

1.4. Method - Method

Each enterprise is viewed as a system, in which there is coordination and synchronization between functional departments. The quality of management activities will reflect the quality of the enterprise's operations. Therefore, manufacturing enterprises with appropriate methods and good levels of production management organization will create conditions to make the most of available resources and contribute to improving product quality. In addition to basic resources, production quality also depends on many other factors such as information, environment, measurement, etc.

2. How to apply the 4M rule effectively in production

Applying the 4M method in production is increasingly becoming a trend in businesses today. However, not all units know how to apply effectively to make the production process more scientific, efficient and increase productivity. How to apply 4M effectively when businesses rely on 4 factors of human resources, materials, machinery and methods.

2.1. Control human resources

Human resources play a key role and determine the success of the production system. To effectively apply the 4M rule in production , manufacturing enterprises need to take the following steps:

• Determine clear work goals for each human resource group and divide work accordingly. Management should pay attention to monitoring the working situation of each employee to clearly understand the strengths, weaknesses and expertise of each individual, thereby being able to assign tasks appropriately.
• Identify employees who have a sense of responsibility and achieve high productivity. Management needs to have a worthy reward policy for these individuals, and also needs to properly and consistently handle employees who lack a serious working spirit.
• To improve the qualifications and working skills of personnel, businesses need to regularly organize training sessions and share knowledge. This will contribute to helping employees increase productivity and efficiency at work.

2.2. Control of raw materials

Input raw materials can account for up to 50% of total costs and directly affect product quality. Therefore, businesses need:

• Check inputs and establish conditions for preserving raw materials in the warehouse according to set standards.
• Research and use new and alternative materials.
• Choose a quality, reputable supplier.

2.3. Control mechanical equipment

Machinery and equipment are important elements in the 4M principle. To improve this factor, businesses need to:

• Make an appropriate maintenance plan for machinery.
• Apply modern technology to manage machinery and equipment as well as make timely maintenance plans.
• Investing in modern equipment contributes to increasing productivity and product quality.

2.4. Control production methods

To improve production methods, businesses need to carry out the following items:

• There is a scientific, detailed strategic planning method, with defined goals and outlines of necessary actions to achieve those goals.
• Software applications in management help leaders build a comprehensive view of business from many different perspectives to make the fastest and most accurate decisions.
• Divide work to each employee, department, and department appropriately.
• Organize and empower each specific subject.

Above, 1C Vietnam shared details about 4M in production as well as how to apply 4M effectively. With the development of technology, businesses can use supporting software such as 1C:Company Management to control production methods and automate activities, thereby helping businesses optimize 4M in production. . Contact 1C Vietnam today for advice and effective implementation of software in your business.