Microlearning on Gum Preparation to Reduce Adhesive Failures (Corrugation & Honeycomb Panels)

A just-in-time microlearning solution for “gum” preparation: short videos, QR access at the mixing station, and supplier expertise to standardize mixing and reduce bonding defects.

Microlearning on Gum Preparation to Reduce Adhesive Failures

In corrugated packaging and honeycomb panel production, industrial adhesive (“gum”) preparation is a small step with a large quality impact. This case shows how just-in-time microlearning (2-minute videos + QR access at the station) standardized mixing and reduced bonding defects and rework.

  • YOJ Pack-Kraft (2016–2022)
  • Performance support microlearning
  • QR codes + tablets at mixing station
  • Supplier expert workshop + SOP standard work
Confidentiality-safe publishing: Avoid brand/chemical composition details and customer references. Show SOP steps, station visuals, and index-based defect trends (baseline=100).

The problem: adhesive failures from mixing variability

Gum preparation is a small step, but it directly controls bonding quality. An uptick in adhesive-related failures (poor bonding leading to rework and occasional rejects) was traced to variability in mixing and application practices across operators. The core need was training + standardization at the exact point of work.

The solution: just-in-time microlearning at the mixing station

A focused microlearning intervention was deployed to make the standard procedure accessible instantly. We created a series of short SOP videos (most 2 minutes or less) demonstrating critical steps: correct ratios, target temperature/consistency, viscosity checks, and post-use cleaning to prevent contamination.

Access design: tablets + QR codes on adhesive barrels

The videos were available on tablets mounted at the mixing station and via QR codes placed on adhesive barrels. This ensured an operator could scan and refresh the procedure anytime—especially useful for night shifts and new joiners.

Video for demonstrationShows the “how” clearly for mixing, checking, and cleaning.
Checklist for recallQuick reminders at the moment of work reduce misses.
QR for speedImmediate access reduces dependence on verbal instructions.

Supplier workshop: the science behind bonding

A hands-on workshop was conducted with the chemical supplier’s technical expert. Understanding why ratio precision matters and how temperature affects bonding improved operator discipline. The workshop content and footage informed the microlearning modules, grounding SOP content in expert knowledge.

Reinforcing standard work (from tribal knowledge to SOP)

This intervention turned verbal “tribal knowledge” into a consistent standard work resource—available to everyone, anytime. Operators began taking ownership of quality at the source and started suggesting improvements like labeling measuring tools and pre-marking fill levels to prevent guesswork.

Outcomes (safe to publish)

Adhesive failure rates reduced as mixing consistency improved. Over a quarter, QA reported a significant reduction in defects attributed to bonding issues. Beyond defect reduction, the program strengthened frontline ownership and continuous improvement behavior.