The Midwest is known for its friendly, welcoming people. As it turns out, it’s developing a renowned reputation for its open-arms job market as well. Human resource consulting firm ManpowerGroup just put Grand Rapids, Michigan, at the top of its Q3 2017 Employment Outlook Survey, and they’re not the only ones taking a closer look…
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The death of manufacturing jobs has been greatly exaggerated. With the move toward more and more automation, there has naturally been concern about manufacturing jobs disappearing, but, in fact, today’s machines often serve to make human manufacturing jobs easier rather than replace them. From 2000 to 2014, manufacturing jobs did decline, but since then, they’ve…
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If you’re captivated by the possibilities of 3-D printing, you’re certainly not alone. Manufacturers, engineers, and tech-savvy consumers are using additive manufacturing to create everything from toys to prosthetics and even food. However, the size and functionality of goods they can develop using traditional 3-D printers with plastic and liquid materials is limited. That’s why…
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The National Fire Protection Agency reports that a 14,760 annual average or non-home fires were caused by an electrical distribution or lighting failure. Between 2010 and 2014 this resulted in 20 deaths, 190 injuries and an average $659 million in direct property damage yearly. A whopping 50-75 percent of all of these electrical fires were…
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You don’t want to make a simple but costly mistake on the plant floor, so why would you take an unnecessary risk on a national day of celebration? Independence Day is one many Americans look forward to: It’s the unofficial start to summer for some, a family reunion celebration and the country’s birthday in one,…
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A good manager of a manufacturing facility is always looking for ways to boost on-floor productivity. Industry moves fast in today’s global markets, and the more productivity you can get out of your workers, the better your organization will be able to compete in a challenging market. Here are a few ideas to implement if…
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A reconfigurable manufacturing system (RMS) is designed to accommodate rapid change in the manufacturing process, from its design down to its hardware. The goal is to quickly adjust production or functionality in response to market changes. An RMS differs from a flexible manufacturing system (FMS) in a several key areas. An FMS’ goal is…
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What’s more American than celebrating our nation’s independence? When you think of the Fourth of July, grilling, sun, and fireworks likely come to mind. As you prepare for your festivities this Tuesday, choose American-made and manufactured products to support and celebrate the United States and your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors who live here! 🍗…
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Many book and paper manufacturers will tell you that paperless devices have been detrimental the manufacturing business. And so we reach the “Paperless Paradox”. While many successful paper manufacturers have been hit hard by the popularization of e-books, kindles, and the iPad they are simultaneously jumping on the paperless train for their own needs. The…
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In our highly-globalized and technological world, customers have adapted to expect and appreciate a great user experience (UX), whether ordering products online or working with manufacturers. According to an article from user experience research group Nielsen Norman Group, “User experience encompasses all aspects of the end-user’s interaction with the company, its services, and its products.” Customers expect ease,…
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