The current process for setting guide keys into aluminum extrusions is performed manually. It is a tedious and unergonomic process. The team needs to evaluate the process for improvement or replacement.

The keying process is done by hand. Each key has to be placed in a channel one by one. Then keys are secured into the channels by using a wooden block which is smashed against the keys. This process is taking too much time, and it is hard on the employee’s hands. When attempting to secure the keys in the channels, a hole begins to wear into their gloves. The employee attempted to fix this problem by placing a piece of cardboard into their glove. Currently, they only have two employees completing this task. One of these employees rarely does this task. This problem needs to be addressed because the person completing it is currently a manager and could be doing more important things. This task is also disliked by the employees and by reducing time completing this task, it would also increase their morale.