$ cat apt-plus.json
title: APT+
category: design
client: Ford Motor Company
date: Nov 22, 2021
stack:UX/UI DesignData VisualizationProcess Optimization
Project Overview
Ford APT+ is an end-to-end solution focused on streamlining manufacturing workflows by improving the accuracy and efficiency of time studies. These studies, previously slow and error-prone, cost Ford millions of dollars annually in wasted effort. My goal with APT+ was to design and implement a precision-driven, scalable system that eliminated inefficiencies and enabled data-driven decision-making—ultimately saving Ford approximately $1M per plant each year.
Situation
• Overview
Ford's manufacturing processes heavily rely on time studies to identify bottlenecks and optimize production lines. However, existing approaches were:
• Labor-Intensive
Manual tracking led to frequent errors.
• Slow and Costly
Collecting and interpreting data took too long, directly impacting production efficiency.
• Data Silos
Lack of integrated systems made it difficult to draw insights from collected information.
Task
• Overview
The objective was clear: build an intelligent, user-centric platform to conduct time studies more efficiently and accurately. Key goals included:
• Reduce Manual Errors
through automated data collection and analysis.
• Enhance Data Transparency
by centralizing results in a scalable system.
• Enable Data-Driven Decision-Making
so stakeholders could act on real-time insights.
Action
1. Overview
I led the design and engineering strategy, collaborating with project managers, software engineers, and researchers to:
2. Identify Bottlenecks
Conducted field research to pinpoint the most time-consuming or error-prone tasks in existing processes.
3. Rapid Prototyping & Iteration
Created proof-of-concept solutions in close coordination with stakeholders, then refined these prototypes based on real-world feedback.
4. Automation & Accuracy
Integrated data capture tools and algorithms to reduce human error, streamline data entry, and highlight critical insights for faster decision-making.
5. Cross-Functional Alignment
Worked with engineering, design, and business units to ensure the final solution met broader operational goals, including cost reduction and user adoption.
Result
• Saved Approximately $1M/Year per Plant
By reducing manual errors and expediting time studies, each facility saw significant cost savings.
• Increased Efficiency & Accuracy
Automated workflows cut the overall time spent on data collection and validation, boosting productivity on the assembly line.
• Provided Scalable Insights
A centralized data platform allowed decision-makers to track performance metrics in real time and roll out process improvements across multiple plants.