Narnet Communications Speaks at 'Standardization of Maintenance Work' Seminar for Young Mechanics

Narnet Communications took the stage alongside Kyoto Tool Co., Ltd. (KTC) at the skill development seminar titled 'Standardization of Maintenance Work,' held at the Gifu Prefectural International Takumi Academy on May 18-19, 2026.

The seminar was aimed at mechanics with up to approximately five years of experience working for companies belonging to the Gifu Automobile Maintenance Promotion Association. Nobuaki Tanaka, a producer in the Business Planning Department, served as an instructor. Participants learned about standardization methods, the concept of manualization and digitalization to move away from experience-dependency, and the utilization of inspection processes and tools to enhance quality.

Rising Importance of Standardization Amidst Shortages and Knowledge Transfer Challenges

In automotive maintenance sites, the focus often shifts to just 'getting the work done' amidst daily busyness. However, to maintain high quality and provide safe, stable service, it is essential to cultivate the habit of questioning why each task is performed in a specific order and what purpose each process serves.

The seminar used the statutory 12-month inspection as a case study to discuss the thought process behind work standards that allow anyone to provide consistent quality. Rather than just creating manuals, the focus was placed on considering and improving procedures according to the equipment, environment, and personnel structure of each facility.

Narnet Communications has supported maintenance operations for leased vehicles by collaborating with a nationwide network of workshops. Enhancing the quality and efficiency of work at maintenance sites contributes not only to the fleet management of end users but also to the safety and security of drivers and the wider community.

The participants were highly motivated, engaging seriously with each lecture. Amidst busy work schedules, this provided a rare opportunity for them to reflect on their own work processes and discuss efficiency and standardization.

Creating, Testing, and Improving Procedures with '12-Month Inspections'

The first day of lectures was led primarily by Shozo Ota of KTC, focusing on 3S (Seiri, Seiton, Seiso - Sort, Set, Shine), proper tool usage, and torque management. The participants listened with great interest to insights unique to a tool manufacturer.

Narnet Communications organized the workflow in maintenance workshops, from booking, preparation, and reception to maintenance, explanation, payment, and vehicle delivery. They presented each step not just as a task, but as a touchpoint for ensuring customer peace of mind and satisfaction.

For example, booking is not merely about scheduling an entry date; it is a process for adjusting workshop intake, preparing necessary parts and documents, and reducing customer wait times. Similarly, the explanation and payment stage is not just about communicating the service details, but a vital communication opportunity for ensuring that customers can continue to use their vehicles with peace of mind.

Toward a Maintenance Site That Improves Quality, Efficiency, and Safety Simultaneously

The second day was conducted in a practical format focused on the standardization of 12-month inspection procedures. Participants organized their current inspection steps on worksheets and compared them within groups. They then specifically examined work sequences, tools used, tire placement, and lift operations, testing improvements in real-time.

Work standardization effects include stable work quality, improved efficiency, safety assurance, easier training for new recruits, and the elimination of reliance on specific individuals. These elements create an environment where young mechanics can grow without confusion, leading to the sustainable growth of the entire workshop.

Narnet Communications will continue to address the challenges of maintenance sites as a mobility infrastructure company, contributing to industry-wide talent development and quality improvement.