In this case study, we examine the impact of adopting a customer-centric, flexible manufacturing approach to team structures and workflows when working with end customers in ever-changing market conditions.

For decades, the rigid system of enclosure manufacturing has slowed down entire projects. Unforeseen issues have caused project managers to step back and face sliding delivery and operation dates. The increasing demand for flexible, turnkey solutions with modular availability has created new challenges for existing industry leaders to innovate.

LEL International, a premier power equipment manufacturer, is offering cutting-edge solutions at industry-leading availability by partnering with companies such as Cummins, which provides end customers with easy, efficient, and reliable solutions.

A customer found themselves in a tight spot with canceled orders and an urgent need for power. Approaching Cummins for an enclosed generator solution, as they had discovered no immediate delivery options within two years. Cummins scoured their network for a provider capable of delivering four production slots within the year. LEL International was brought in as their ideal solution.

The solution was redesigned per end-user request after receiving the first enclosure. With the first enclosure, the end-user was happy with the sought power, but they requested modifications to future enclosures. LEL International designed and implemented a new layout within 30 days. This new unit was accepted and planned to be incorporated into additional units as the standard.

“LEL was more nimble than its competitors.” – Ben Gardiner

• Deliver one custom-fabricated enclosure within the same year
• Provide additional production slots as soon as possible
• Redesign for a new generator model due to expected delays with other models
• Maintain modular availability for potential site requirements

The partnership between Cummins and LEL International created a flexible and innovative approach to meet end-user needs.

• Initial forecast: Production and installation initial units by Cummins
• Midway adjustment: Expectation of provided units increased
• Ongoing potential: Consideration of additional future units

Any solution provider finds it challenging to adapt to changing product numbers. However, the open communication between the generator manufacturer (Cummins) and the enclosure manufacturer (LEL International) enabled remarkable flexibility.

• Fast response times to inquiries
• On-the-fly problem-solving
• Coordinating onsite logistics
• Supporting complex installation requirements

Despite project changes and critical timing issues with limited availability, LEL International delivered a solution on schedule.

“Once the installation happened, they were happy.” – Ben Gardiner

• All promises were kept
• Smooth handling of project changes
• Product commissioned without warranty issues
• Delivery ahead of deadlines

“Cummins and LEL International rolled up their sleeves and got to work,” said Javon Reynolds, Senior Project Coordinator. “Cummins is dedicated to making end users happy, and their level of capability pushes us to move efficiently towards our own end goals.”