Content
Materiel
Manufacturing/Materiel Management
Materiel Management is responsible for a spectrum of Bell Helicopter materiel processes impacting suppliers including requirement development, production change control, and cost reduction efforts.
Detailed supplier instructions are found within Bell Process Specifications (BPS) documents. The BPS library is included as part of the Supplier Product Assurance section of Bell Helicopter's Secure Web.
Cost Reduction
Bell Helicopter embraces Textron strategies concerning cost management efforts including Continuous Improvement (CI), Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VA/VE), and other initiatives to help control quality, delivery, and manufacturing costs across Bell Helicopter's supply base.
Opportunities to jointly work on projects with suppliers at their site(s) will occur from time to time. Suppliers are encouraged to participate in CI projects executed within their space, as these projects can provide a wealth of experience in use of CI tools and techniques.
Logistics and Transportation
Logistics and Transportation activities include establishing premium transportation contracts, support Production and Commercial/Military aftermarket programs, integrate Lean methodology into storage and disbursement processes, induct "standard work" practices in warehouse management teams to reduce costs, and instill best value concepts with technology and WMS applications.
Detailed supplier instructions are found within Bell Helicopter Process Specifications (BPS) documents. The BPS library is included as part of the Supplier Product Assurance section of Bell Helicopter's Secure Web.
Packaging and Labeling
Bell Helicopter defines packaging, labeling and handling standards for suppliers. Labeling includes bar coding and Unique Identification (UID) requirements among other requirements. Full requirements are found as part of BPS 4050 on Bell's Secure Web . Requirements are part and commodity specific.
Packing Slips and Master Bill of Lading
All shipments to Bell Helicopter must include correct packing slips and master bills of lading.
Bell Helicopter has two Advanced Shipping Notice methods. Suppliers can use either the web-based system or direct Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). ASNs allow suppliers to have visibility of Bell Helicopter need dates while giving Bell Helicopter greater control of shipment tracking and receiving.
Transportation
Transportation guidelines are included as part of the Purchase Order. Textron has enterprise-wide negotiated transportation standards, listed on www.routingguides.com. This includes guidelines and process for expedites and Premium Transportation options.
NAFTA Regulatory Content Reporting
Suppliers must comply with North American Free Trade Agreement regulations, including Certificate of Origin documents. Suppliers are responsible for investigating and complying with their legal obligations in connection with the manufacture and supply of goods under NAFTA regulations.