India's economic resilience in Q1 FY23, surpassing the UK, highlighted its global prominence in the post- COVID-19 era. Today, it is the 5th largest with a GDP of $3.7 trillion (as of FY24). This positive trajectory is driven by increased employment, a surge in private consumption, and favorable consumer sentiment. However, within the industry, the crucial need for manufacturing consulting has become apparent. Companies are recognizing the vital role of specialists who provide tailored strategies and insights. In this ever-evolving landscape, expert guidance has become invaluable, empowering companies to navigate complexities, make informed decisions, and stay ahead of industry trends.
The Indian Center for Research and Manu- facturing Excellence (ICME) plays a key role in guiding companies through the growth stages, facilitating their transition from small to medium and eventually to large scales. Its focus extends across a broad spectrum of services to address varied needs. With a rich history of collaboration with over 500 companies in the past 16-17 years, the organization's evolution is remarkable. It commenced its journey by serving through CII (Confederation of Indian Industry) and subsequently established its independent entity in 2014. This progression underscores the center's steadfast commitment to providing comprehensive support, significantly contributing to the growth and development of businesses in India.
Specializing in Operational Excellence
Guiding clients in the implementation of strategic processes, ICME is a global consulting firm specializing in operational excellence.
Its primary objective is continual revenue acceleration, impacting both the top and bottom lines. Through a Japanese-inspired, holistic, systematic, and scientific approach, ICME integrates training, consulting, coaching, and diagnostics seamlessly.
This unique methodology is crafted to support the growth journey, ensuring a smooth transition from a small to medium enterprise and then to a large one for sustained and robust expansion. ICME's emphasis on addressing invisible losses aims to enhance productivity, quality, costing, R&D, and layouts. This comprehensive approach results in a 5 percent or more improvement, making companies more profitable and globally competitive.
“In my view, the critical aspect is whether companies are taking the right steps for their growth, be it in pharma, auto, or the white goods industry. It is not only about excellence but also consistency and adaptability. Companies need a 360-degree perspective, evaluating each vertical, from R&D to manufacturing, marketing, and new business development. Each department functions like a cricket team, where every player must give their best for collective victory,” says Ravinder Kumar, Managing Director of ICME.
We have drawn inspiration from Japan's SME industry model, which involves regional ministries solely dedicated to industry-focused universities. Our enthusiasm for the Japanese approach extends to integrating their practices
Integrating Japanese Approach
Responding to the increasing demand for an industry-oriented curriculum, ICME has collaborated with multiple universities. This partnership aims to produce graduates who are well-prepared for the workforce, leading to improvements in campus recruitments. “We have drawn inspiration from Japan's SME industry model, which involves regional ministries solely dedicated to industry-focused universities. Our enthusiasm for the Japanese approach extends to integrating their practices. These principles have been effective in enhancing business excellence across various domains,” adds Ravinder.
In today’s VUCA world, the ability to adapt swiftly is not just a requirement but a guiding principle across various sectors, including consulting. Embracing this imperative, ICME is introducing innovative industry-focused courses that mark a significant shift in the education landscape. Strengthening its ties with esteemed institutions like IITs, it actively engages in diverse courses and seminars. Transitioning from theoretical foundations to practical applications, its commitment lies in offering courses that directly tackle real-world challenges, covering areas like preventive maintenance, machine redesigning, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as Industry 4.0, AI, and big data science to elevate machine efficiency.
