Prem Shankar Leads Quality Turnaround at Kinetic Engineering
A Quality Turnaround in Just One Year
In just 12 months, Prem Shankar, Manager – Quality at Kinetic Engineering Limited (KEL), has led a major transformation. His initiatives resulted in zero customer complaints and a significant drop in product rejections.
When he joined, the quality function was under pressure. The company faced high rejection levels—nearly 35,000 parts per million (PPM)—and frequent customer issues. Prem set a bold target: zero complaints.
The 4P Quality Framework: A Strategic Foundation
To achieve this goal, Prem introduced a clear and actionable framework, which he calls the “4 Ps” of quality:
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Person – Skilled and trained team members
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Process – Consistent and controlled systems
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Part Handling – Proper techniques to avoid damage
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Prevent Outflow – Measures to stop defects from reaching the customer
This approach reshaped how problems were addressed and how the team was trained.
Daily Discipline: Quality Starts Every Morning
Each day begins at 8:30 AM with a shop floor inspection. Prem starts at the store and firewall area and checks for any abnormalities. If issues are found, they are discussed with the team immediately.
He also reviews past complaints with his team to ensure mistakes aren’t repeated. Daily interaction with operators, supervisors, and engineers helps him:
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Clear defective parts
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Train new workers
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Maintain process discipline across departments
Key Improvements That Drove Results
1. CNC Pusher Mechanism to Fix Face Runout
Prem’s team installed a pusher mechanism on CNC turning machines. This solved the problem of face runout and reduced manual variation.
2. Upgraded Oil Flushing System to Prevent Denting
The broaching process was optimized by improving the oil flushing system. This reduced denting issues and improved surface finish quality.
Strong Collaboration and Leadership Support
These results were possible due to cross-functional teamwork and consistent support from senior leadership, including the Vice Chairman. Their backing helped implement changes quickly and efficiently.
Prem’s analytical mindset helped the team track every action taken and measure its effectiveness. This ensured that solutions were not just implemented, but sustained.
Zero Complaints: A Milestone and a Mission
KEL has now recorded zero defects and customer complaints for the past eight months. Rejection levels have dropped sharply, and new projects are underway to reduce PPM by another 2.5%.
Prem remains focused on sustaining this progress. For him, zero complaints isn’t just a one-time achievement—it’s a new quality standard at Kinetic Engineering.