We don’t stop with just implementing a few changes to processes in order to alleviate more bruises in the spuds. We dig deeper with analytics and data.
What do you use to “dig deeper”? It’s called a Bruise Ball.
It simulates a typical size potato that we run through our warehouse. It has data collection capabilities to show the point impact, type of impact surface, length, duration and G-Force. It’s scaled to show a line of tolerance. Therein, what will cause a significant bruise is above that tolerance line, or below the line which will not have enough impact to cause any “damage”.
We have to put the bruise ball through multiple tests to get enough data. Furthermore, it has to go through each individual step / process multiple times in order to get the proper amount of data. The more data points we get, the more we can narrow our focus and increase the accuracy of it.
For example; If you shot 1 arrow at a target 25 yards away just 1 time, do you think that would an accurate test of form, aim, consistency, flight, bow tension, etc…..?
That versus if you shot that same arrow 10 times at that same target, you could see if your aim was true, the bow was a the proper tension, the arrow was defect free, your form was consistent, etc…..AND you could get some observations from that to improve your shooting.
In effect, that’s what we are doing! We’re making observations and a “Deeper Dig” into what we can do to improve our processes and save the potatoes from too much bruising.
In closing, these challenges we have with a perishable product take time and effort. Those both, in order to make sure we have the best product available for the end consumer.
Now….let’s go make some FRIES & CHIPS!
Team Chipper