Observing and Learning
In this past week, I have attended a fascinating tour and presentation of Bay Cities, the premier designers and manufacturers of packaging and displays, and went on a tour of Gordon Biersch, the brewing company (see pictures below). One of the best ways to keep up with the latest trends in manufacturing, supply chain and business in general is to participate and observe. Are you observing?
One tip to implement this week:
Although it is always insightful to get out and tour other manufacturers and supply chain organizations (such as the port or a 3PL), why not start by observing what is going on around you? It sounds quite easy but it isn’t nearly as easy as it sounds when we get busy and focused on the latest email or message on our phone. Are you paying attention to your colleagues? Your manager? How about what has changed lately in terms of layout, space, equipment, or just your colleague’s frame of mind?
Next, get out and observe what others do. I’m not talking about competitors. You can gain valuable insights and ideas from completely unrelated businesses. An aerospace company can learn from a food processing manufacturer even though they are very different – and even different types of manufacturing with process and job shop. One of the most valuable things we do with clients is bring the appropriate insights from seeing countless businesses over the years when we see a related pattern or trend. Join us atAPICS-IE for our tours and at our upcoming symposium as one option to observe.
The power of observation is amazing – try it for the day and see what you have been missing.
About APICS
APICS is the leading association for supply chain and operations professionals and the premier provider of research, education and certification programs that elevate end-to-end supply chain excellence, innovation and resilience. APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) and APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) and the recently introduced APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) designations set the industry standard. The organization includes 37,000+ members and 250+ international partners.
About APICS – Inland Empire
The APICS Inland Empire Chapter (APICS-IE) covers the Inland Empire region of Southern California, which spans the easternmost portion of Los Angeles county and includes San Bernardino and Riverside counties. The chapter offers educational classes, programs and special events in the hotbeds of manufacturing and distribution activity including Ontario, Riverside and Temecula. APICS-IE partners with other organizations supporting manufacturing and distribution such as the DMA (Distribution Management Association), neighboring APICS chapters, industry leaders and government officials in support of furthering the region’s workforce development and growth
Media Contact
Kathleen McEntee | Kathleen McEntee & Associates, Ltd. | p. (760) 262 - 4080 | KMcEntee@KMcEnteeAssoc.com