The Boeing Max 737 has problems. We know of the issues and causes surrounding the two crashes of this plane model. We are learning there are more issues that need ironing out. The more the plane is studied and tested – as it ought to have been before placing in commercial use – the more we realize systemic issues likely have led us to this place.
The Boeing product was engineered in a new, exciting multi-disciplinary manner. It resourced parts, manufacturing and even materials engineering. It was a global enterprise for Boeing. They designed the new plane from the ground up and did so making full use of expertise and cost-saving techniques from throughout the global village.
Assembling the new plane was a science unto itself. Supply chain management was stretched and re-invented. Parts and materials were pulled from countless nations and assembled in micro parts assembly, unitary systems assembly, and finally into the final assembly in American facilities. The coming together of millions of parts and pieces tested computer systems and management science. But the plan came together, flew, was tested and finally approved for commercial use.
What was not accomplished is an exhaustive trial of the new plane and how all of its foreign manufactured parts came together in one product and performed. How did the new materials, the variant designs and supply chain work in the production of the new plane?
Experience will tell the tale. So far it is not pretty. Even fearful.
For a product that carries hundreds of passengers thousands of miles in rarefied altitudes, we must be certain the product is safe. Until now Boeing’s reputation has been spotless. It’s product worthiness was beyond question. Not now.
The new plane is a marvel. It is pretty good. It performs almost as planned. But pretty good is not good enough. Too many lives are at stake. Too bad Boeing has bet its future on a manufacturing process that simply was flawed. And untested.
How Boeing will or can fix this problem remains grounded. Like its new planes.
June 7, 2019
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