Introduction of MISUMI Japan's "FA Customer Voice Award"
What is the FA Customer Voice Award?
The "Customer Voice" is a process of capturing customer needs or requirements. It is a key input for new product definition and highly useful for product development, MISUMI Japan focuses on many possible ways to gather information from customers. The FA Customer Voice Award program recognizes and rewards the voice of factory automation customers who are involved in automatic assembly machines, industrial robots, medical equipment, processing machining and other peripheral devices.
Many excellent Customer Voice requests and suggestions have contributed to the content of the MISUMI catalog over the past decade. These entries are cast through the internet by facsimile and postcards for the yearly awards. There are two awards for 2007: a Grand prize to the most excellent "Voice", and a Gold prize for second place.
FA Customer Voice Award 2006 Grand prize
Request from customer:
I want a flat tension lever which can turn a screw by covering the head.
Customer profile: Engineer, Engineering Design department Business profile: The production and sale of the machining tool.
The voice of the customer
Why did you apply for this award?
"There was no space to turn a lever when I was working within a tight space against a wall. I knew that the head had a hexagon hole on a clamp lever convenient for installation. I suggested that the flat tension lever should have had a hexagon hole."
Your "Voice" initiated the introduction of a new product. How do you like it?
"It is really comfortable, so I often use it."
You won the grand prize, and what do you think?
"I was surprised when I was notified that my product suggestion was chosen as grand prize. I am honored to have the digital camera, too."
Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.
"I will continue to suggest and give you information from now on when I perceive a new design process."
FA Customer Voice Award 2006 Gold prize
Request from customer:
I want to standardize a floating joint (separate male thread type) for cylinders.
Customer profile: Production Engineering Department, Facilities Planning Business profile: The production and sales of electronics.
The voice of the customer
Your "Voice" initiated the introduction of a new product. How do you like it?
"I am honored that my entry is now available in the MISUMI catalog. I am glad to be able to help other designers as I am one myself."
Please tell us why you entered.
"I wanted to make all cylinders and floating joints standardized. In the past, I had to submit special orders because no manufacturer offered standardized floating joints appropriate for standard cylinders. Lead time was two weeks. Standardization makes the process very convenient and shortens lead time.
Please tell us about winning the gold prize.
"I am very thankful, and will offer suggestions in the future if an idea seems useable as a product. I am glad to accept the wonderful prize."