Simple, It (information Technology) Based Solutions For Increasing Productivity In A Small Scale Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Industry

• By: GANDHI, Forum (Shreenath Chemicals, India)
• Co-author(s): Mrs Forum Gandhi (Shreenath Chemicals, Mumbai, India)
  Mr Bharat Shah (Shreenath Chemicals, Mumbai, India)
  Mr Janak Jalundhwala (Shreenath Chemicals, Mumbai, India)
  Mr Akash Shah (Shreenath Chemicals, Mumbai, India)
  
• Abstract:

  Background
  Pharmaceutical industry comprises of majority small scale manufacturing units. These industries strive to achieve compliances with global standards which are common for all industries large or small. Th standards remain same but challenges differ for small and large scale industries. Small scale manufacturing industries face challenges which mainly includes limited Human Resources and limited investment capacities. These challenges can even obstruct their daily work schedules. Implementing automation through customised softwares is beyond their investment capacity. Simple IT based solutions freely available can assists in calendar preparations and reminders.
  Purpose
  The purpose of this study is to make use of IT solutions without financial strain to achieve higher productivity. The study aims at increasing productivity of quality control department of a small scale pharmaceutical industry.
  Method
  The roles and responsibilities of quality control department were reviewed. The quality management system of the department was also reviewed. Large areas of deviation were identified. Calender plans for their departmental training, stability testing and calibration was prepared. This was then recorded into software system using IT solutions. The timely reminders received were used to make the daily work plans. The backlog of work of quality control department was compared after a month.
  Results
  It was noted that quality control department could complete only daily testing on time. They found it difficult to manage stability samples testing, periodic calibration and on job training within specified time. Many deviations were filed due to lack of time management. Calendar system were used to prepare the schedule of training, stability sample testing and calibrations. Daily reminder system were also set. This resulted in better work management. Daily working planning was easier which lead to completion of required work apart form daily testing on time. The number of deviations filed after the implementation of this reminder system were reduced by 60 % in a month.
  Conclusion
  The challenges of small scale industries can be overcomed by use of simple non expensive IT solutions. Many such IT solutions can be explored for other departments. It can also be explored as a solution for other productivity requirements.