First, Our Future is Local Domestic manufacturers are constantly adjusting. The once monolithic industry has changed; now open-minded to environmental concerns, energy resources and efficiencies in process and space use. And as always, looking for new ways to grow. For the last few decades, U.S. companies have turned to global manufacturing production for new opportunities; but challenges exist there, too. Challenges very similar to those inherent in local production such as rising transportation costs, speed of delivery and product quality. Decisions to produce and source from outside of the country are often made non-strategically. Due to this, companies often fall into one of two camps: (mindlessly) global or (hopelessly) local. However, successful companies leverage local and then think global, understanding the need for balance.
advantage CONNSTEP Advantage Magazine is a publication of CONNSTEP, Inc. Since 1994, the business consultants at CONNSTEP have helped Connecticut’s small and midsize businesses compete and grow. Through highly personalized services tailored to the specific needs of our client companies, we help develop more effective business leaders, execute company-wide operational excellence and devise creative strategies for business growth and profitability. CONNSTEP is Connecticut’s NIST/MEP affiliate and is supported by the Connecticut Department of Economic
The smart companies look inward first, examining what is working and how they can improve on success. When needed, they look to resources close to home, in their community, for support and encouragement to enable growth. Sure, they see international expansion along the horizon, but they see diversification and customization as a pathway with their existing client base as the first step. One of our featured clients in this issue, Birk Manufacturing (page 24), tailors their products per customer demands. They also survey their clients to find out what is important. This is critical as manufacturing in the 21st century needs new business models as patterns for product consumption have changed. Birk says that hearing and responding to what their clients say is vital …. and this sets them apart. And along with this, Birk’s visits to other manufacturers across the state act as models for ongoing continuous improvement activities, sharing in ideas for developing a strong and positive culture within their organization.
and Community Development (DECD).
Publisher Bonnie Del Conte, President & CEO CONNSTEP
Editor Rebecca Mead, Manager, Marketing & Communications CONNSTEP
Contributing Writers Robert Kravontka, CONNSTEP Kathy Hokunson, Site-Seeker, Inc. Ken Cook, Peer to Peer Advisors Michael Perrelli, CONNSTEP Rebecca Mead, CONNSTEP
Also profiled is Lex Products (page 18). As with Birk, Lex looks to their community to add value and efficiency to their organization. The notion of jobs leaving the state does not sit well with them. Their new facility in Shelton is testament to their community values. I was fortunate to be invited to their recent open house and witnessed the unveiling of new banners on their building, each representing their dedication to organizational excellence. If you’re near Shelton, go see them - they are a statement. And while Lex is already active in the global market, their involvement with other Connecticut companies as partners and suppliers sets best practices as a solid base for their expansion.
Mike Gugger, CONNSTEP Jamison Scott, Air Handling Systems
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So, as we must be competitive in a global economy, manufacturers, like any other business, have the ability to source and produce in other parts of the world. But perhaps their decision to do so should stem from a solid foundation developed through local collaboration. I recently read an article with some great advice from a fourth generation business in Maine, looking to open another location on the West Coast. The grandfather’s advice was “Pick your community well. You’re not there solely to make money; you’re there to play a larger role.” May your reading be satisfying,
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Bonnie Bonnie Del Conte is the president & CEO of CONNSTEP. She can be reached at info@connstep.org.
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advantage summer 2011
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