New Performance Assessment Service From Rockwell Automation Helps Manufacturers Uncover, Eliminate Productivity Barriers

Integrated Performance Assessment from Rockwell Automation uses seven-step process to identify root causes of poor performance, leading to specific performance improvement solutions for measurable results

Integrated Performance Assessment uses seven-step process to identify root causes of poor performance, leading to specific performance improvement solutions for measurable results

MILWAUKEE, MAY 20, 2002 - To help manufacturers improve individual work performance and boost overall productivity, complete automation leader Rockwell Automation has developed the Integrated Performance Assessment (IPA), an innovative assessment service and methodology designed to identify performance inhibitors and lay the groundwork for measurable performance improvement.

As the cornerstone of Rockwell Automations Global Manufacturing Solutions Training & Performance Services offering, the IPA uses an innovative seven-step process that identifies the factors that limit an organizations performance potential at the plant or enterprise level. The assessment results are used to develop a customized, measurable action plan that can help companies achieve long-term operational improvements.

While downtime and worker productivity are concerns across all sectors of manufacturing, each employee and each situation must be approached on a case-by-case basis - each with its own unique challenges and weaknesses," said Andy Sloan, managing director, Rockwell Automation Training & Performance Services. The IPA uses a systematic process to diligently sort, evaluate and diagnose the symptoms of problems and treat the underlying causes."

The IPA goes beyond traditional coursework or skills training to address a multitude of issues affecting a companys workforce. Using a methodology based on the examination and measurement of seven critical performance factors - people, organizational systems, processes, work environment, skills and knowledge, job aids and performance support, and industrial technologies - certified performance analysts uncover the root causes of many employee and operational performance issues.

The seven critical performance factors are the drivers of productivity," said Sloan. When organizations experience poor performance, many companies jump to training or invest in the latest technology. Interestingly, the root cause is often hidden in the system, or within a combination of factors. The emphasis here is to facilitate long-term performance improvement by helping our customers maximize their technology investments by harnessing the hidden potential in their human assets and, in the process, create competitive advantage."

A multifaceted service, the IPA can be implemented at various levels based on an organizations need - from a limited scope assessment focused on skills and knowledge, and performance support, to a comprehensive evaluation of an entire plant, or enterprise. For example, a Level One IPA has more narrowly defined parameters and is ideal for
companies with a workforce of diverse skill sets, have been recently introduced to new technology, or are plagued with poor job performance. A Level Two IPA takes a system-wide approach to uncovering existing or impending workforce issues through an examination of all seven critical performance factors.

Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK) is a world-leading provider of industrial automation power, control and information solutions that help customers meet their manufacturing productivity objectives. The company brings together leading brands in industrial automation for Complete Automation solutions, including Allen-Bradley® controls and engineered services and Rockwell Software® factory management software, Dodge® mechanical power transmission products, and Reliance Electric® motors and drives. The company also is a leading provider of contact management technologies and applications that help companies more efficiently manage interaction with their own customers. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., USA, the company employs approximately 23,000 people at more than 450 locations serving customers in more than 80 countries.