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Hometown Trolley

Paving the way for efficient manufacturing

2
days faster processing per trolley build

Replacing inconsistent technology and paper-based processes saved Hometown Trolley two days in processing time per trolley built. It also enabled its president and CEO to focus on bigger-picture priorities, including developing a new production line.

The Challenge

Hometown Trolley’s growth had resulted in inconsistent technology experiences and chronic network problems. Leaders wanted a better way to share data — without investing in a pricey ERP system. For example, every vehicle built comes with a set of paperwork that follows it through the manufacturing process, but the shop floor didn’t have access to the digital tracking system, so it used a separate paper-based processes to monitor progress and collect signoffs.

The Solution

Working with Wipfli, Hometown Trolley replaced outdated network equipment, added wireless internet to the shop floor and replaced employee PCs. It also introduced tablets on the shop floor so staff can enter and access information when and where they need it. The company migrated production data to Microsoft Office 365, Teams and SharePoint, as well as added a large monitor on the shop floor so everyone can see the production schedule.

Wipfli got everything done the right way. What we had was so hodgepodge before, and now it’s cohesive and streamlined.
Kristina Pence-Dunow, President and CEO at Hometown Trolley

The results

The technology plan Wipfli created was designed to be implemented over three years, but Hometown Trolley was motivated to enact most of it in one. It immediately gained time and efficiency savings. By eliminating duplicate data entry and giving employees access to production information, Hometown Trolley cut two days of processing per build. The transformation inspired creative thinking, increased transparency, and allowed leaders to delegate responsibilities to keep production moving.