Manufacturing Insights
Welcome to Manufacturing Insights, a blog dedicated to providing valuable information and insights into the dynamic world of manufacturing.
At the heart of every successful manufacturing venture lies the ability to make informed decisions. Manufacturing insights serve as the compass guiding us through business complexities. They offer us the vantage point to anticipate market shifts, optimize operations, and strategize for the future.
The Makings of a Great Maintenance Manager
Many Maintenance Managers have mechanical and electrical aptitude, but that does not make them great or even good Maintenance Managers. On the flip side, a great or good Maintenance Manager must possess some knowledge about electrical and mechanical systems, and not rely on leadership alone.
2024: The Second Half
As we move into the second half of 2024, many thoughts come to mind in general, and specifically for manufacturing in the Lehigh Valley. The usual suspects of inflation, employee attraction and retention, as well as lingering other workforce issues continue to be high on the minds of our manufacturing community. On the employee attraction and retention side, the pendulum has swung more to retention as the hot priority.
Lean Manufacturing: Meeting the Needs of the Emerging Workforce
Explore how Lean Manufacturing meets the needs of next generation workers: By embracing Lean principles, manufacturers can create environments that not only drive efficiency but also naturally align with the workplace preferences of Millennials and Gen Z. This alignment can be a powerful tool for attracting and retaining talent across generations.
The Strategic Role of the CFO
CFOs drive sustainable growth, create long-term value, and position their organizations for success in an ever-changing business landscape. By bridging the gap between financial performance and operational agility, modern CFOs are invaluable strategic partners. Leading beyond the numbers, nurturing a culture of growth, and embracing the future of financial leadership,
Sun, Heat, and Safety: Navigating Workplace Hazards in Summer
Controlling workplace safety hazards in summer does not need to be complicated, but it does take effort to understand the needs of employees in certain situations. Review OSHA regulations. Discuss the hazards with your safety committee. Develop options for eliminating unsafe conditions.
Mastering Business Success: The Paramount Role of Customer Experience
Customer expectations are constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements, cultural shifts and changing market dynamics. To stay relevant, businesses must continuously adapt and innovate CX strategies. Large brands have given us new standards by which we measure all other companies.
How Smaller Manufacturers Can Develop Risk Management Strategies for Their Supply Chains
To build a resilient supply chain, manufacturers should align their supply chain strategy with their business goals and engage in strategic planning, inventory management, and vendor management. This includes classifying raw materials, negotiating contracts, and inventory management.
The Tangible Benefits of ISO 14001 Certification
Obtaining ISO 14001 certification involves several key steps. It starts with a gap analysis to identify current practices and areas for improvement, followed by the development and implementation of the EMS, which needs to be well-documented and communicated throughout the organization. ISO 14001 certification enhances a company’s marketability and competitiveness.
Employee Stock Ownership Plans: An under-utilized solution to a challenging dilemma
For profitable companies with 15 or more employees and more than $1MM in revenue, in any industry other than professional services (i.e. physician practices, law firms, etc.), exploring the utilization of an ESOP for you and your company could be a worthwhile exercise.
The Path to Automation: Guidance for Small and Mid-Sized Manufacturers
Investing in automation isn’t just about acquiring new technology—it’s about integrating automation into your overall business strategy and culture. This requires buy-in from leadership, clear communication with employees, and a commitment to ongoing training and upskilling. Automation isn’t about replacing workers; it’s about empowering t
The Maintenance Paradigm: Unlocking Capacity and Consistency
Preventative (PM) and Predictive (PdM) maintenance can tell an organization about the current health of its equipment. This is done by keeping accurate records of maintenance actions and repairs over the equipment’s lifetime. Empower your team with the skills and knowledge to implement Lean methods and processes that generate zero waste while ensuring customer satisfaction.
What Your Employees Wished You Knew – DiSC® Styles in Leadership
Understanding DiSC styles is not merely a checkbox on the path to effective leadership—it’s a fundamental cornerstone. Leaders who invest the time and effort to comprehend the diverse behavioral styles within their team unlock a wealth of benefits, from enhanced communication and team dynamics to increased productivity and engagement.
Building great teams: Lessons from Patrick Lencioni’s Five Behaviors
Building great teams: Lessons from Patrick Lencioni’s Five Behaviors by Wendy Beltzner, Senior Director Leadership Development and Training Strategy In today’s fast-paced manufacturing world, great teamwork is more than a “nice-to-have”—it’s a core ingredient for a...
How Deviance Becomes the Norm: Breaking the Cycle of Unsafe Practices
How Deviance Becomes the Norm: Breaking the Cycle of Unsafe Practices by William T. Paletski PE CSP CWCA Senior Environmental, Health & Safety Consultant Keystone (formerly East Coast Risk Management) Lehigh Valley, PA Workplace safety culture is how “things”...
The True Mark of a Great Quality Manager
The True Mark of a Great Quality Manager by Sally Wilk CEO / Sales & Operations Manager WCH Professional Services, LLC The makings of a great Quality Manager extend far beyond technical expertise. They encompass a blend of in-depth product knowledge, mastery of...
Build your blueprint. Manage the clock.
Build your blueprint. Manage the clock. by William Stewart, Director, Client Advisor Alex. Brown | Raymond James Successful business owners, movers and shakers by definition, endlessly wrestle with the challenge of balancing multiple priorities against the relentless...
The Makings of a Great Maintenance Manager
The Makings of a Great Maintenance Manager by Shawn Furman Advanced Manufacturing Technology Strategy Manager Many Maintenance Managers have mechanical and electrical aptitude, but that does not make them great or even good Maintenance Managers. On the flip side, a...
2024: The Second Half
2024: The Second Half by Rich Hobbs President & CEO MRC As we move into the second half of 2024, many thoughts come to mind in general, and specifically for manufacturing in the Lehigh Valley. It’s a political election year so that always weighs heavily with lots...
Lean Manufacturing: Meeting the Needs of the Emerging Workforce
Lean Manufacturing: Meeting the Needs of the Emerging Workforce by Gene Kaschak VP, Continuous Improvement & Leadership Development Strategy As manufacturing evolves to attract and retain talent, the core aspects of Lean Manufacturing offer a compelling alignment...
The Strategic Role of the CFO
The Strategic Role of the CFO by Ryan Walter Managing Director ProCFO Partners In today's dynamic business landscape, the role of Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) is undergoing a significant transformation. Once primarily responsible for managing financial risks and...
Sun, Heat, and Safety: Navigating Workplace Hazards in Summer
Sun, Heat, and Safety: Navigating Workplace Hazards in Summer by William T. Paletski Senior. Environmental, Health & Safety Consultant East Coast Risk Management It is summer and the temperature has been above 90 degrees F for many days here in the Region. It is...
Mastering Business Success: The Paramount Role of Customer Experience
Mastering Business Success: The Paramount Role of Customer Experience By Wendy Beltzner, Sr. Director Leadership Development and Training Strategy In today’s highly competitive marketplace, success isn’t just about selling a product or service – it’s about crafting...