Our Process — MN Consultants
How It Works

The MN Method
Four Phases.

Every engagement follows the same proven sequence. No shortcuts. No automating before the foundations are solid. Every phase delivers standalone value — and unlocks the next.

Stabilise the process. Optimise the process. Then automate the process.

The MN Consultants Principle · Every Engagement
At a Glance

The Four-Phase
Framework

01
Phase One
Diagnose

Map the current state. Find where value leaks and why. No assumptions.

02
Phase Two
Stabilise

Build standard work and quality foundations. Make the process predictable before improving it.

03
Phase Three
Optimise

Apply Lean tools to eliminate waste, reduce changeover, and unlock hidden capacity.

04
Phase Four
Automate

Now introduce intelligent automation — with clear ROI and a stable foundation ready to receive it.

In Detail

Every Phase,
Explained

01
Phase One
Diagnose

A deep-dive into your current state. Process mapping, waste identification, data analysis and team interviews to pinpoint exactly where value is leaking — and why. Most operations discover £80K–£300K of recoverable value in the first two weeks.

Value Stream Mapping
8 Wastes Identification
Root Cause Analysis
Stakeholder Interviews
OEE Baseline Measurement
Data & KPI Audit
Deliverable Current-state assessment report, priority improvement matrix, and initial business case for change.
02
Phase Two
Stabilise

Build standard work, visual controls and quality foundations before anything else is changed. Unstable processes must be stabilised before automation is introduced — otherwise you automate the chaos and lock it in permanently.

5S & Standard Work
Visual Management Systems
FMEA & Error Proofing
SOP Development
Quality Checkpoints
Daily Management Routines
Deliverable Documented SOPs, visual management boards, FMEA risk register, and measurable reduction in process variation.
03
Phase Three
Optimise

Apply targeted Lean tools to eliminate remaining waste, reduce changeover times, improve flow and unlock hidden capacity across people, equipment and materials. This is where most of the financial uplift is realised — without capital expenditure.

SMED / Rapid Changeover
Line Balancing & Takt Time
Capacity Planning
OEE Improvement
Supplier Development
Pull Flow & Kanban
Deliverable Measurable throughput gains, reduced cycle times, capacity freed for growth — typically 15–40% uplift in the first engagement.
04
Phase Four
Automate

Now we automate — with a clear ROI case, correct process sequencing already in place, and a stable foundation that is genuinely ready to receive automation. Smart test rigs, cobot integration, and automated assembly that pays back within 12–24 months.

Automation Business Case
Supplier Selection & Spec
Smart Test Rig Design
Cobot Integration
ROI Measurement
CAPEX Project Management
Deliverable Commissioned automation with validated ROI — typically paying back within 12–24 months. Example: £3.5M CAPEX delivered on time and within scope.
Why the sequence matters

Most automation fails
before it starts

The majority of automation projects fail not because the technology was wrong — but because the underlying process was never stable enough to receive it. By following the four-phase method, MN Consultants eliminates that risk entirely. You automate a process that works. Not one that doesn't.

Start Your Engagement

Begin With a
Diagnostic

Email
Address
1 Greenlands Road, Basingstoke
Hampshire, RG24 9RD
CEng · MIMechE
MSc Engineering · Cranfield University
BEng Mechanical · Coventry University
Companies House Reg. No. 16666226
MN Consultants
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Companies House Reg. No. 16666226 · 1 Greenlands Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG24 9RD