Manufacture Smarter Blog

6/19/2020 - BY: DALE WICKER
Often when we are faced with a problem, we react quickly without thinking it through, ultimately treating the symptom and not the real cause. When situations like this occur in business, leaders need a proven, comprehensive method for solving problems that could arise. The 5-Why method is a simple, but powerful, analysis tool that can help teams identify the root cause of a problem.

6/12/2020 - BY: CHUCK WERNER, ANTHONY WELSH & PETE SCHMIDT
As manufacturers prepare to return to work in accordance with the current restrictions of social distancing, much assistance can come from implementing common Lean manufacturing practices.

6/5/2020 - BY: BEN WOOD
In the world of manufacturing, it seems like everyone has a boss. Growing up, I remember listening to my dad talk to my mom about his boss. Sometimes it was good, sometimes it was bad – regardless, I remember thinking, I don’t know if having a boss is a good thing. What would it be like if everyone had a coach, a mentor, an advisor, a teacher instead of a boss?

5/29/2020 - THE CENTER
As manufacturers in Michigan start to return to their facilities, this new start brings with it many new challenges to navigate. To provide guidance during this time, The Center recently published several blogs with advice to help keep facilities safe, prepared and successful.

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.

5/22/2020 - THE CENTER
This Memorial Day weekend, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center would like you to take a moment to remember, honor the ultimate sacrifice, and celebrate the extraordinary service, commitment and courage of our nation’s heroes.

5/19/2020 - THE CENTER
With manufacturing facilities around Michigan starting to reopen, there are still many lingering questions about how to ensure a successful and safe return while continuing to advance processes. To provide assistance during this time, The Center’s experts have answered manufacturers’ most pressing questions.

5/15/2020 - BY: ANDY NICHOLS
If your organization is certified to ISO 9001, AS9100D or ISO 14001 and you have an audit scheduled to happen during the current COVID-19 restrictions, these tips are for you! ISO 9001 or 14001 certified organizations with an “ANAB” logo – or “IAF” logo – may be a candidate for conducting what’s known as an “ICT Audit,” which stands for “Information & Communication Technology.”

5/12/2020 - BY: JESS CRUZ
While the many changes and disruptions that came from the COVID-19 pandemic were not expected as we entered 2020, leaders in all industries have worked hard to restore our nation’s prominence and success as the world continues to respond and recover. So, how does this impact the business activities of small and medium-sized manufacturers?

5/8/2020 - BY: PETE SCHMIDT
After visiting hundreds of companies throughout the country, one thing I have consistently observed among successful companies is they have less resistance to change compared to those that think they have their processes under control and are working at their highest efficiency. Do not fear change – embrace it for the good it can do for your organization.