BOEING
(formerly McDonnell Douglas Helicopter Systems)
COMPANY AT A GLANCE
Located in Mesa, Boeing is a high-technology company involved in research, development,
engineering and manufacturing of military and light helicopters and ordnance products. Its
major markets include domestic and international military organizations and domestic and
international helicopter owners and options that include law enforcement, air medical
rescue, executive transport, tour options, utility and electronic news gathering. The
company has annual sales of more than $700 million and employs 4,000 people. Boeing is
distinguished as the leading global producer of attack helicopters; the number three
producer in the world of commercial light helicopters; the number one producer of
medium-caliber ordnance ground vehicle armament base systems and the prime contractor of
the largest U.S. Army Science & Technology program. |
Boeing is known internationally for its products that include the AH-64A Apache attack
helicopter and the upgraded AH-64D Longbow Apache. The company produces the MD 500 Series
of light helicopters, including the revolutionary MD 520N, which uses the company's
exclusive NOTAR¨ system technology, as well as the MD Explorer and MD 600 Series.
This Mesa-based company, world renown as an innovative developer and manufacturer of
military and commercial helicopters, has taken on the challenge of improving product
affordability and engineering excellence while maintaining and the utmost levels of
safety. To meet and exceed these demands, Boeing has systematic processes in place to
involve customers early in product development and to continually include their feedback
in the company's quality and business initiatives.
The Boeing key business objectives are: affordable products, good financial returns,
market development, and employee enrichment. All strategic plans and metrics are tied back
to these four objectives . While cost is one of the key factors in the aerospace
environment, the customer continues to demand top quality and responsive service.
Long-term strategies for Boeing to maintain its market leadership include the ongoing
development of leading-edge technology and maintaining a flexible, well-trained workforce.
Customer Input at the Heart of Improvement
As part of the continuous-improvement cycle, Boeing has four initiatives designed to
support customer, competitive analysis, corporate direction and Boeing operational goals
and strategies. These activities include the advanced quality system, which is anchored by
implementation of ISO 9001, and a closed-loop corrective/preventive action system that
uses internal and external data to identify root causes of nonconformances and
implementation of corrective actions.
Boeing is an active participant in the U.S. Department of Defense's Commercial Best
Practices Laboratory, a government-private team to assist the government in partnering
with its suppliers. Boeing's process-based management initiative identifies key business
processes and develops measuring and monitoring methodologies. Boeing also has just
developed a five-year plan to transition to an environment and culture of self-directed
work teams.
Data Drive Results
One of Boeing's many strengths is the company's deep commitment to involving customers in
all phases of planning and operation. In addition, the Mesa plant also demonstrates
consistent, well-developed approaches for process management through major business areas.
The company uses a process management model that provides clear identification of key
process elements, process requirements, measurements and control standards. Boeing's
supplier management process is predicated upon extensive supplier involvement.
Boeing collects and analyzes extensive types and quantities of data to support its
information needs. Corrective action plans are developed and monitored. Boeing places a
high level of importance on including information from customers in its analysis
efforts.
Another strength at Boeing is the involvement of its leadership and senior
executive team in providing an atmosphere that supports and fosters open communication and
teamwork. In the area of business results, positive current performance and trends are
noted, with very positive results for the Apache program and supplier performance.
| For more information contact Vaughn Pirlo, Senior Manager, Quality,
Boeing 5000 E. McDowell Rd, Mesa, AZ 85215-9797, or call (480) 891-7052 |
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