Too often, when hard times hit, Lean goes out the window—though it is needed more than ever. We are all familiar with the notion that Lean tools and methods provide a solid basis for continual improvement of operations. We’re also accustomed to the idea that a successful Lean... Continue Reading
Designed to support enterprise bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies, the NIST guide sheds light on security challenges and privacy risks brought on by employees’ mobile devices. NIST recently shared draft guidance for enterprise bring-your-own-device policies, designed to provide system... Continue Reading
The recent months have presented unprecedented events and impacts to the energy industry, many of which could significantly impact your current electricity or natural gas supply contract. Many of you may have already received notice from the utility about a change of your energy supplier, while... Continue Reading
One year ago, this month, the US went into lockdown. Scientists, along with health and government leaders, wrestled with a deadly, unseen enemy that would later course through the nation with a vengeance, literally leaving bodies in its wake. During this time, some businesses adopted remote... Continue Reading
Just as we have reexamined the way we work in response to the events of 2020, so too should we reevaluate what a strong leader looks like. The COVID-19 pandemic has radically altered the business landscape. Many companies experienced anywhere from a 20-60% loss in revenue in 2020, and more... Continue Reading
One of the biggest challenges being experienced by heat treaters today is the effectiveness of their sales and marketing teams in the new digital environment we are all living in. Sales were fairly functional prior to the COVID-19 pandemic; you scheduled an appointment to visit your... Continue Reading
The National Association of Manufacturers’ quarterly record of manufacturer optimism hit its highest point in two years. Most U.S. manufacturers see clear skies ahead, according to a new survey released by the National Association of Manufacturers. A majority, 87.6% of 450 respondents, of... Continue Reading
Never before have companies relied so heavily on their human assets for their competitive advantage. You need your best people to stay, regardless of economic ups and downs. By stay, we mean that your talented people have not just checked in, but are tuned in and turned on, as well. They are... Continue Reading
Supply chain trends for 2021 include reshoring and e-commerce, says BDO survey. While optimism is returning to the economy, 83% of U.S.-based Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) expect their company to take up to a year to recover, according to the 2021 BDO Manufacturing CFO Outlook Survey. Of... Continue Reading
Companies need to make their networks more resilient. Here’s how: When the Covid-19 pandemic subsides, the world is going to look markedly different. The supply shock that started in China in February, and the demand shock that followed as the global economy shut down, exposed... Continue Reading
Integrated project delivery is focused on collaboration and increasing value. Integrated project delivery (IPD) started with healthcare projects and has now migrated to manufacturing. This design and construction delivery method incorporates Lean construction tools in an enhanced collaborative... Continue Reading
Manufacturers Must Be Industry 4.0 for Success, Researchers Say There has certainly been much promotion and a certain degree of hype over the so-called "Industry 4.0" initiative relative to advanced manufacturing techniques. But Industry 4.0 seems to be primarily about a collection of... Continue Reading
