First, large manufacturers are increasing their dependence on suppliers of parts as they streamline their operations to increase productivity.
On the positive side, this trend opens new opportunities for supplier firms. At the same time, the pressures to reduce costs and to innovate are increasing.
The second trend involves the development of increasingly sophisticated production in developing countries. Smaller U.S. manufacturers are facing increasingly sophisticated competition.
In order to stay competitive, these companies have to offer value to their customers that low-cost overseas competition cannot match, such as proprietary, high-technology products, a willingness to customize, and fast turnaround times.
This report mirrors the recent findings of the 2005 Georgia Maufacturing Survey. Learn more.
posted by Ed Morrison |
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Some Background on EDPro Weblog
The purpose of this weblog is to help economic development professionals -- EDPros -- keep up with the changes sweeping our profession. Strap on your goggles. It's a whole new game. There are no experts any more. The only place to learn about economic development is from other EDPros who are doing it.
One other point: the prevaling approach (paradigm, if you like) in economic development is shifting from competition to collaboration. There are a lot of reaasons underlying this shift, but here's the important insight: You, your community, and your region will do better by collaborating and sharing information.
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Speaking and workshops on Open Source Economic Development
As the idea of Open Source Economic Development starts spreading, more people are asking about it. Visit the I-Open web site to learn more. My colleagues and I are happy to explain the basic concepts in a talk or a workshop. E-mail Susan Alshuler if you'd like to learn more about workshops and speaking.
Background on Ed Morrison
Download some background information on me here.
New report on smaller manufacturers
