title: Driving external chemistry optimization via operations management principles.
abstract: Confronted with the need to significantly raise the productivity of remotely located chemistry CROs Pfizer embraced a commitment to continuous improvement which leveraged the tools from both Lean Six Sigma and queue management theory to deliver positive measurable outcomes. During 2012 cycle times were reduced by 48% by optimization of the work in progress and conducting a detailed workflow analysis to identify and address pinch points. Compound flow was increased by 29% by optimizing the request process and de-risking the chemistry. Underpinning both achievements was the development of close working relationships and productive communications between Pfizer and CRO chemists.
authors: External Research Solutions, Pfizer Worldwide R&D, San Diego, CA 92121, USA.
authors: F Christopher
authors: FC
authors: Bi
authors: External Research Solutions, Pfizer Worldwide R&D, Groton, CT 06340, USA. Electronic address: heather.n.frost@pfizer.com.
authors: Heather N
authors: HN
authors: Frost
authors: External Research Solutions, Pfizer Worldwide R&D, Shanghai 201203, China.
authors: Xiaolan
authors: X
authors: Ling
authors: External Research Solutions, Pfizer Worldwide R&D, Groton, CT 06340, USA.
authors: David A
authors: DA
authors: Perry
authors: External Research Solutions, Pfizer Worldwide R&D, San Diego, CA 92121, USA.
authors: Sylvie K
authors: SK
authors: Sakata
authors: Worldwide Medicinal Chemistry, Pfizer Worldwide R&D, San Diego, CA 92121, USA.
authors: Simon
authors: S
authors: Bailey
authors: Worldwide Medicinal Chemistry, Pfizer Worldwide R&D, Groton, CT 06340, USA.
authors: Yvette M
authors: YM
authors: Fobian
authors: Ipsen Group, Milford, MA 01757, USA.
authors: Leslie
authors: L
authors: Sloan
authors: Worldwide Medicinal Chemistry, Pfizer Worldwide R&D, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
authors: Anthony
authors: A
authors: Wood
mesh_terms: D002626:Chemistry, Pharmaceutical / Q000379:methods; D003142:Communication; D003284:Contract Services / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000592:standards; D015195:Drug Design; D055808:Drug Discovery / Q000379:methods; D004345:Drug Industry / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000592:standards; D017598:Efficiency, Organizational; D006801:Humans; D058996:Quality Improvement; D012106:Research / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000592:standards; D057188:Workflow