Many companies start a supplier relationship with tough negotiating, driving down the price and asking for “give-aways to sweeten the pot,” like free freight. In … Continue reading →

“You can’t sell out of an empty wagon,” is a favorite saying among salespeople, meaning that you have to have inventory (usually lots of it) … Continue reading →

I recently saw a blog post that discussed taking notes electronically, on an iPad, rather than on paper, in order to reduce handling and administration. … Continue reading →

Recently I was working a project for a client and I checked several references I’ve used over the years for manufacturing and distribution improvements. Four … Continue reading →

Many companies focus on the tactics of continuous improvement and are often disappointed with their lackluster results. They look at top line growth and see … Continue reading →

“Why” is a great question. Do you wonder why? The answer is simple: it puts things into context. It shows the future and sets the … Continue reading →

Companies often overlook their opportunities to develop  internal partnerships. How many times have you heard about functional silos, internal politics, ineffective teams and weak communications? … Continue reading →

It seems like there’s always a better time to do something, and that time is “later.” Many companies believe that improvement initiatives – like Lean, … Continue reading →

As the days grow shorter and cooler, I find myself reflecting on a week I spent in sunny  Florida at an Alan Weiss thought leadership … Continue reading →

At this time of year, many companies conduct their annual off-site planning retreat to develop strategic plans for the next year. Then it’s back to … Continue reading →