The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) (hwww.the-mtc.org) in Coventry has launched a team of troubleshooters to help businesses of all sizes improve their productivity, processes and efficiency.

The new System Architecture team, which consists of manufacturing experts and research engineers, has already undertaken a number of projects for companies in the rail and aerospace sectors.

Headed up by senior engineer Nikki Gillatt, the team will examine company processes to find opportunities for improvement, identify bottlenecks and look at areas where technology can help to reduce costs, increase safety, save time or improve productivity.

Ms Gillatt said that the important thing is to understand exactly what the customer wants to achieve and then launch an intense examination to find what needs to be done.

“It could be a matter of clearing bottlenecks with technology or helping the company with process improvement.

“Once the need for technology, automation or process improvement is established, we use our cross-industry knowledge to recommend and develop solutions tailored to suit.

“Technology is not always the answer, but if it is, we will identify the best improvements from the myriad of automation options available.

“We have worked in businesses in the aerospace and rail sectors with significant success, with technology having a dramatic impact on their operations, subsequently providing a return on investment.”