Manufacture Smarter Blog

2/5/2021 - BY: CHUCK WERNER
The effect of cost on profitability is generally well understood. The higher a company’s costs, the less profitable they can be. However, while companies often know if they are (or are not) profitable, they do not always have a clear understanding as to why. Gaining a true understanding of the impact defects have on profitability is key to improving business performance.

12/18/2020 - BY: JESS CRUZ
I am privileged to meet with and support many small to mid-sized manufacturers in Michigan. They bring great value with their products proudly made in Michigan. However, many of these manufacturers are unaware of the information and opportunities associated with Industry 4.0 technologies. My hope is to provide some insight and encouragement for those who are considering their next steps towards technology adoptions.

12/4/2020 - BY: GEORGE SINGOS
In my role as a Business Leader Advisor, I often speak with small manufacturers in Michigan that are looking to grow. Many have found that their growth is stagnant and they don't know why. In situations such as these, the first step is to begin with evaluating the organization’s structure.

7/10/2020 - BY: GEORGE SINGOS
Much like how the concept of natural selection says we must adapt to our environment in order to survive, businesses also must evolve and adapt to new methods and ways of operating if they hope to survive into the future. Otherwise, getting stuck in the past and fearing change could lead to the demise of the organization.

6/26/2020 - BY: TRICIA ONESIAN WITH SPECIAL GUEST BOB JENKINS
As an increasing number of small manufacturers start to invest in innovative technologies, I’ve seen one critical issue arise in several companies: they don’t have the basics in place before implementing advanced technology. To understand the importance of having fundamental training in place, I had a discussion with my friend and colleague Bob Jenkins, Quality Program Manager at The Center, about why the basics are critical in manufacturing.

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.

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.

5/8/2020 - 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.

2/28/2020 - BY: ROGER TOMLINSON
With the impacts of the last recession still weighing heavily on the industry, it's never too early to start preparing your business for the next economic downturn. Rather than waiting for the downturn to hit, why not fortify your business ahead of time to ensure your company emerges successful?

7/19/2019 - BY: KARA KUCINSKI
Manufacturing is entering a new era. And while the current business landscape may be vastly different than what manufacturers have experienced before, the same tools and concepts from the past can be used to inspire change and improve practices in this new setting. One such tool is Kaizen.