USAF Kluges Efficiency Practices: The Air Force merged pieces of several civilian efficiency programs to develop its own, called “Smart Operations 21.” Officials say the program is based on both Lean and Six Sigma business process improvement tools, which were designed in the private sector to increase value for customers, save time and money, and reduce waste. Maj. Gen. Kevin Sullivan, commander of Ogden Air Logistics Center, Hill AFB, Utah, says the ALCs have used this process for years, now it has a name.
Air Force depots are not typically meant for quick repair jobs, but during Operation Epic Fury, the service moved some of its stateside heavy maintenance capability forward to fix battle-damaged aircraft closer to the fight.
