Manufacture Smarter Blog

7/28/2023 - BY: REBEKAH MCCARTER
The latest Capterra Supplier Relationship Survey underscores the complexity of today’s global supply chains. This tells us it isn’t as simple as identifying a solution.

3/18/2022 - BY: REBEKAH MCCARTER
Are you a manufacturer looking to grow your business? Well, CONNEX™ Michigan may be the perfect solution. CONNEX™ Michigan was launched in January to connect manufacturers together in one searchable database. As the most advanced supply chain and manufacturing networking database tool ever assembled, many Michigan companies are taking advantage of the platform’s benefits.

1/28/2022 - BY: REBEKAH MCCARTER
As we move into year three of the COVID-19 pandemic, the disruptions to the global supply chain continue. In fact, things look like they may get worse before they get better. Resilience is the new buzzword. While everyone is talking about the challenges, very few are proposing solutions.

12/3/2021 - BY: PHILLIP WADSWORTH (WWW.NIST.GOV)
Each year, the MEP National NetworkTM is fortunate to assist manufacturers across the nation that are creating distinct, quality products. And, each year, we like to share some of these small to medium-sized manufacturers and their products with you.

9/24/2021 - BY: REBEKAH MCCARTER
As the world continues to recover from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chains everywhere are facing raw material shortages, long lead times, higher material and transportation costs, labor shortages, and volatile pricing. With these factors now hurting both businesses and consumers alike, it’s more important than ever to gain a deep understanding of the current state of supply chains along with the best solutions to each challenge.

8/6/2021 - THE CENTER
Last week, in celebration of The Center’s 30th anniversary in business, we shared insights from our President Mike Coast about how both our company and the manufacturing industry have evolved over the past few decades. This week, we’ll hear from Bob Lyscas, Chief Operating Officer, as he discusses his 25-year tenure with The Center. 

7/30/2021 - THE CENTER
As we celebrate our 30th year in business, we reflect on the way our company has evolved with the industry over the years, as well as how some things – like our mission to support Michigan manufacturers – have never changed. No team member at The Center understands these transformations better than our President Mike Coast, who has been with The Center for more than 25 years. His extensive tenure with our company, along with his insights on the future, are captured here.

5/26/2020 - NJMEP
This pandemic has stretched manufacturers to their limits. Uncertainty and misinformation are both prevalent. Turning to trusted sources will be invaluable to help keep business moving forward.

2/7/2020 - THE CENTER
When the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (The Center) was established in 1991, it was driven by an important mission. This mission was to work alongside Michigan manufacturers to share the expertise needed to work smarter, compete and prosper. Now, nearly 30 years later, our organization is proud to know that we have been a part of Michigan manufacturing’s growth and advancement for decades.

6/24/2016 - THE CENTER
Do you ever wonder how the Federal Government can assist your company?  Or why the perks which seem to flow to major US corporations don’t trickle down to your business?  Well, times are changing and resources are available! The National Network for Manufacturing Initiatives (NNMI) was formed to make sure that technology developed through defense and other government programs would reach small and mid-sized manufacturers (SMMs).