Take Control!

Ask yourself, what's going to be different in 12 months from what it is today? Then take control. Lesson leanred from Laurie Harbour of Harbour Results at this week's AMBA Convention.

Laurie reviewed some challenges to growth including mass customization, perception of manufacturing, government (taxes, healthcare, economy, free trade ... control the things you can; don't be a victim); and operational excellence (you can control). Next she explained the opportunities and steps to growth: analyze the facility layout, gather data that will drive you into focus, rethink the value stream and re-evaluate the tasks to optimize labor rates.

Laurie emphasized the need to create a culture of continuous improvement so when the next dip occurs
your business is able to flex.