| Abstract: | Process enrichment is an essential function of any growing firm. Process development tools are the approaches and procedures that organizations employ to improve their processes The main objective of this study was to assess the practice and challenges of Achieving Competitive Excellence (ACE) as a process enrichment system in Ethiopian Airlines Group Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul division. To be successful in study three basic questions were raised. The research design employed in the study was a descriptive survey. The research method was both quantitative and qualitative approaches employed. The sampling techniques employed were purposive, and Stratified sampling was used for quantitative analysis in this study. In order to analyze, interpret and present the data captured via questionnaire, Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used The sample size was 245 employees chosen from seven departments. The data gathering tools were a questionnaire, focus group discussion, and interview as well as document analysis. The participants of the interview and focus group discussion were ACE managers, ACE team leaders, and Ex-ACE agents. The questionnaire was administered to 245 employees but 219 of them properly filled and returned. In doing that, according to the descriptive analysis, though Ethiopian MRO implements ACE as an operating system the actual practices are poor due to the training inconsistent. In addition, ACE is not fully in utilized as a working language, and the company standard operating procedure is not strong enough to enhance appropriate ACE implementation, besides training lack of commitment shown. ACE tools in general have relatively better awareness among respondents in six ACE tools: Visual Control (5s+1), Total Productive Maintenance(TPM), Market Feedback Analysis(MFA), Quality Clinic Process (Q C P C), and Mistake Proof (MP). But the detailed knowledge and practical experience lacking in Process Management, Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA), and Decision Making. To overcome the challenges encountered, recommendations have been forwarded. These include orienting or training the employee ahead of time on the overall contents of Achieving Competent Excellence (ACE), motivating the employee to willingly take on more responsibilities in the implementation process, using measurement and feedback methods to confirm improvements, establishing a consistent technique for closing the gap, and properly utilizing the ACE tool. |
