Archive for category: American Manufacturing

You are here: Home / American Manufacturing

When a Mistake Occurs at Your Business, “It’s Never the Employee”

It’s Never the Employee.

In other words, it is NEVER the employee’s fault.

Are you thinking to yourself, What on earth are you talking about that “it’s NEVER THE EMPLOYEE?”

How can it NEVER be the employee when a mistake occurs within a business? 

Doesn’t make sense, right? 

Business isn’t a tournament where everyone wins a trophy. 

There needs to be accountability. 

If it is never the employee, then who’s fault is it when a mistake occurs?

Well, one of the greatest challenges with business ownership is of course managing employees.

As an entrepreneur, creating a team or staff that shares your drive, vision and dedication is a monumental task.

Especially since the staff typically does not have skin in the game as does the business owner, YOU.

A New York Times article from 2011 titled “It’s Never the Employee” completely changed my perspective on this subject.

The author of the article, Jay Goltz, explains that one of three deficiencies causes mistakes to occur at a business: 

  1. You have a flawed system 
  2. Poor training 
  3. You hired the wrong person (or placed them in the wrong position) 

Let’s explore………..

Edwards Deming on “It’s Never the Employee”

First, before we go into further detail explaining this theory from Jay Goltz, let’s turn to legendary management guru,  Dr. Edwards Deming for his opinion:

“Eighty-five percent of the reasons for failure are deficiencies in the systems and process rather than the employee. The role of management is to change the process rather than badgering individuals to do better.”

~ W. Edwards Deming  – 20th Century Global Expert on Continual Improvement

Over the years, I have found that it is extremely challenging for both sides, the business owner and employee, to see each others perspective.

If an entrepreneur has owned their business for many years, it is difficult for them to relate to the challenges that an employee faces. 

On the other side, most employees have never owned a business and are truly unaware of the gargantuan effort it takes to build a profitable and successful business.

Yet, how do you create a vibrant atmosphere and dynamic team so that company goals are met?

Well, let’s dig deeper.

Entrepreneurship & Building the Team 

 

Never the Employee

Encouraging employees to follow directions and execute strategies takes stamina.

Unfortunately, many entrepreneurs have amazing talents, skills and strengths, yet, if leadership or managing people is not one of them, what do you do?

Especially if you find yourself failing to motivate.

What do you do when employees just don’t seem to “get it”?

You keep thinking, “what is wrong with everyone and why doesn’t anyone want to work?”

This path is a downward spiral.

The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting a different result.

It is difficult to admit when something isn’t working. However, the blame belongs on us, the business owner.

As entrepreneurs and business owners, looking in the mirror to identify flaws is tough. 

So what do you have to lose to consider viewing your staff in a different light?

What if you reduce stress and sleepless nights over the actions or inaction of your employees? 

You potentially have nothing to lose and everything to gain. 

Let’s take some advice from a hugely successful entrepreneur who sheds some light on this important subject. 

Jay Goltz: “It’s Never the Employee”

Never the Employee

The New York Times used to have a small business blog series call “You’re the Boss: The Art of Running a Small Business” which I used to read religiously.

Numerous small business owners and entrepreneurs would contribute to the blog sharing the trials and tribulations of entrepreneurship.

One particular blogger who I thoroughly enjoyed reading was a gentleman named Jay Goltz: https://www.jaygoltz.com/about/

Mr. Goltz had started a framing business in Chicago shortly out of college and built it into an incredibly successful business.

He also authored “The Street-Smart Entrepreneur: 133 Tough Lessons I Learned the Hard Way”.

In his blog, Jay shared sharp insights from his decades-long experience in a humble manner describing successes as well as missteps throughout his career.

One particular blog post that completely changed my view towards employees was called, “It’s Never the Employee”: Click here to read.

Ironically, I had the privilege of meeting Jay Goltz at an internet marketing conference shortly after he wrote this article in 2011. He is a passionate and brilliant entrepreneur.

In the article, Goltz asks a fascinating question, “Do you see yourself wired as more of an entrepreneur or more of a manager?”

He goes on to explain that many frustrations of an entrepreneur is purely based on how the company was built and structured.

Taking Responsibility (Because “It’s Never the Employee”)

As you grow your business, responsibilities increase and you HAVE to delegate certain tasks to potential new hires.

The saying “if you want to do a job right, do it yourself” will never allow you to grow your business. 

Unfortunately, growing pains tend to expose flaws. 

For example, let’s say an employee makes a mistake at your business. A new employee.

They have been on the job for a few weeks and should be “getting it” by now.

When the mistake occurs, either small or significant, what is the first thing that you do?

Do you blame the employee? 

Do you sit them down and have “the talk”?

Scold and reprimand them? 

Jay Goltz explains that when a mistake occurs, it is typically one of three reasons that caused it, and all three fall on the owner. 

Below explains his theory on why a mistake occurs…..

1) A Flawed System

Mr. Goltz explains, first look at your system.

As a business owner, it should be a daily obligation to put your employees in position to not only succeed but to also  flourish and thrive.

Especially since their success is your success.

Did your system create or cause the mistake?

Was information flow inaccurate or untimely? 

Take a close look at the mistake to ensure that systems and processes exist to prevent or eliminate these errors from happening in the future. 

Lastly, does a check and balance system exist? 

2) Poor Training

Ok. So you are absolutely positive that the system is rock solid. 

You determine that the mistake was not caused by a flaw in your system. 

Then let’s take a look at the training. Was the employee properly trained?

Do you have thorough training in place so that the employee possesses complete knowledge to understand the process and procedure?

Was there a training period with supervision allowing the employee enough time and experience to execute the task successfully? 

If the answer is a resounding YES!

The system is rock solid. Full proof! Purely mistake-free. 

IN ADDITION, the training is more than sufficient.

As a matter of fact, you will even go on the record that it borderlines on perfection.

Any person with a pulse could do this task….then the mistake is STILL 100% your fault based on Jay Goltz’s theory.

Here is why…..

3) You Hired the Wrong Person

Never the Employee

The worst possible scenario then falls on you with the fact that you hired wrong person for the job.

The employee certainly seemed competent but unfortunately lacks the skill set to complete the task mistake-free.

Meaning you placed an employee in a job where they are simply incapable of succeeding.

Otherwise, they are a good employee but you placed the person in the wrong position. 

I like to refer to this as “putting your first baseman/woman at shortstop”.

To begin with, they play first base for a reason.

Typically they play first base due to a poor throwing arm.

Someone with an amazing throwing arm would most likely not play first base. 

Yet, you put the first baseman/woman at shortstop anyway. Hoping that they succeed. 

Unfortunately, the player receives the blame when they are unable to throw the ball accurately to first base.

When in fact, they should have never been positioned at short stop to begin with.

Thus the team suffers and the shortstop (who typically thrives at first)  feels frustrated when they are simply out of position. 

It Costs Nothing To……

In conclusion, when a mistake occurs, analyze these three helpful steps to help prevent or eliminate this from happening in the future. 

No one wins playing the blame game. 

Encourage open lines of communication to analyze and dissect systematic flaws. 

Focus on training and placing the best people for the right position. 

Meanwhile, below includes a few tips to help foster a healthy work environment. 

Keep in mind that it costs nothing to……

  1. Say “thank you” to an employee for a good day’s work (Thank you Dad for teaching me that one) 
  2. Congratulate and celebrate the wins 
  3. Be consumed in gratitude
  4. Listen
  5. Be relentlessly positive & supportive with your team
  6. Create a culture dedicated to healthy communication
  7. Keep hungry
  8. Be eager to learn
  9. Study new techniques on leadership and team building 
  10. Put people in positions that exploit their strengths instead of exposing their weaknesses 
  11. Stay curious 

Implementing these tactics cost nothing. Yet, offers the wonderful opportunity to create a dynamic team driven towards success. 

Finally, check out these additional posts with helpful tips from two amazing experts on leadership:

Wrapping It Up 

For more information on Falconer Electronics, please click these helpful links: 

Finally, to learn about Wire Harness Assemblies, please click below: 

 

 

/0 Comments/by

The Cons of Doing Business with Foreign Countries

An American business purchasing products from foreign countries certainly creates many challenges. When working with a foreign company there can be some difficulty with achieving a positive final outcome.

A few issues that can arise include:

  • Misunderstandings due to language barriers and “lost in translation”
  • Challenges with manufacturing products
  • In addition, the difficulty of repairing products 

Communication Issues in Doing Business Abroad 

Doing BusinessWorking with other countries opens the door for communication gaps. This could be due to a simple misunderstanding. On the other hand, the gap could be caused by “lost in translation”. In other words, language barriers or translation challenges that create unwelcome errors. 

Whether the communication is happening through emails or even over the phone, barriers exist. These communication barriers can prevent the foreign company from fully understanding the needs of the American company.

They can also cost the American company more money on materials. This can happen due to different terms of products or even various means of measurement. Sometimes in these cases, the foreign company may make assumptions. However, if those assumptions are incorrect, the entire product could be wasted. It can be difficult to bridge the gap of communication which costs the company significant time and money.

Manufacturing Issues

Another issue that can go along with communication includes problems with the actual manufacturing process. If there is a gap in communication there is also a chance that there will be difficulties instructing the foreign country on how to manufacturer the product. If instructions are misunderstood or they have incorrect translations, the foreign business will have a difficult time producing the product.

When there is an issue with manufacturing, there is often a need for a representative from the American company to go on location to the foreign company. Travel costs run high. Especially when traveling abroad. In addition, traveling will also take up useful time that could be utilized for other projects.

Commonly, you can trace manufacturing issues back to communication. However, with no communication gaps, both companies would be able to achieve success through all the stages of production.   

Repair Issues

Another issue that can come from poor communication is damage. Some damage may occur during manufacturing or shipping. If the foreign company attempts repairs, the situation could become worse. Especially, if there was confusion with producing the product in the first place. Furthermore, it is difficult to troubleshoot a problem when they are not in physical proximity.

A company cannot plan for repairs on goods damaged during shipping. There will have to be replacement of pieces when damage occurs. There is no guarantee that repairs will actually fix the problem. However, even if the repairs provide a short-term solution, both parties need to focus on a long-term fix as well.  

Communication, manufacturing, and repair issues are serious concerns. These are all problems that can happen when doing business outside of America. When language barriers exist, it is difficult for everyone to understand the solutions for these problems.

Additional Helpful Information  

Click below of helpful information about Wire Harness Assemblies:

Finally, for more information on Ground Straps, please click these helpful links: 

/0 Comments/by

Outsourcing vs. Offshoring: The Pros, Cons, and Differences

Outsourcing and Offshoring are thought to be the same thing. Due to this, people often use them interchangeably.

However, there is a big difference between the two.

For example, outsourcing is when pieces of a final product are from somewhere other than the main manufacturer. This can be any other location. Locations such as, another local company or a different state. It could also refer to, a foreign country.

However, offshoring occurs when moving parts or all of production to another country.

Local Outsourcing

Manufacturers may outsource some of their materials. This includes components they need to build for their final product. In the electronics business many companies put together various components of a finished good.

Using these components manufacturers create a final product. In these electronic designs, there are needs for wires, hardware, and even housing. All of these come together to form a finished product.

Companies outsource each of these individual pieces to other companies for efficiency.

Smaller companies will often outsource components to local companies. This exchange of work will help boost the local economy. Also, it will build a good rapport with the local supplier. A good rapport with local suppliers is an asset. Especially, in times of rush orders. It’s also an asset when a change in product has been made. Local connections create shorter lead times. In a time crunch, a manufacturer can physically go to the local supplier. There they can implement the component change quickly into their production.

 Offshoring Components

American manufacturers offshore components to foreign companies. This is to lower costs. It is also due to, their manufacturing needs not being met by an American company. Manufacturers offshore components the same way they outsource them. Wiring, hardware, housing, and other components can come from foreign countries. Countries such as, China or Japan. Manufacturers will use products from these other countries because of cost efficiency. Components from Asian countries can cost less to manufacture.

However, they also come with risks.

When outsourcing components locally, delivery often takes less time. This is in comparison to outsourcing from a foreign country. Depending on when the manufacture needs the parts a longer wait can affect the rest of production. Also, with farther to travel there is a higher chance of the loss of products.

When there is a loss of a component in transit, a manufacturer’s wait time is now double. This can create a critical situation for the manufacturer. Especially, if they are on a tight dead line.

Do to lower costs, the quality of goods may not be ideal. Also, damage to offshoring goods is more likely. This is as a result of, an increase in handling of a product (as in shipping to and from multiple facilities). When there are components that have damage, production must come to a halt. This halt will last until the repair or replacement of these pieces. 

Additional Helpful Information  

Click below for helpful information about Wire Harness Assemblies:

Finally, for more information on Ground Straps, please click these helpful links: 

/0 Comments/by
onshoring custom manufacturing

Onshoring Custom Manufacturing in the U.S. is on the Rise

Onshoring

Falconer Electronics Inc. is seeing a strong upward trend in onshoring custom manufacturing. As a United States based contract manufacturer for over 30 years, we have witnessed many ups and downs in manufacturing.

Recently, it seems like more and more conversations revolve around bringing manufacturing back to the States. One particular reason is due to poor quality products produced in foreign countries. 

Outsourcing production to a manufacturer lends tremendous benefits. Especially for a small business or a start up. However, there are numerous challenges and threats to outsourcing manufacturing operations. Therefore, these threats increase dramatically when you outsource to foreign countries. In addition, outsourcing abroad brings many hidden costs.

These determining factors include the heavy cost of monitoring operations as well as quality control. There is also a lack of intellectual property protection as well as extending the supply chain.

Consequently, these are all reasons a company benefits when onshoring custom manufacturing their products instead of offshoring.

Check out these excellent articles:

“Small Businesses Find Overseas Factories Lead to Colossal Headaches”

“The American Onshoring Trend Is Gaining Momentum”

Benefits of Onshoring Custom Manufacturing

This positive trend with manufacturing operations returning to the U.S. holds great promise. Especially for small U.S. manufacturers. The outsourcing of production abroad to foreign countries certainly carries a negative impact on the U.S.

Therefore, terms such as onshoring, reshoring, and redesign manufacturing are generating a new buzz. Onshoring drastically improves lead times. It also cuts inventory levels. For example, at Falconer Electronics Inc., being located close to vendors narrows the supply chain.

Like Falconer Electronics, other companies in the U.S. are also realizing the many benefits to manufacturing products Stateside. However, this is after decades of losing U.S. manufacturing jobs. The majority of which went to lower cost countries such as China.

Consequently, wage gaps are shrinking between China and the United States which delivers another onshoring benefit.

In addition, the U.S. offers superior infrastructure, automation, education, information technology, and transportation. This may be arguable, but since we are biased, we certainly think we hold an edge. 

Risks with Intellectual and Proprietary Information  

Onshoring custom manufacturing  while partnering with the right company dedicated to your success delivers powerful results. 

The positive impact improves everything from strategy, supply chain, staffing, and operations.

Control over the protection of intellectual property is another one of the many benefits. Especially since there is a huge vulnerability when relying on foreign suppliers. Meanwhile, the threat of stolen proprietary information and processes decreases dramatically in the U.S. 

The loss of proprietary information to a foreign supplier brings devastation to a company. Most noteworthy, legal recourse and recovery is challenging at best. As a result, a company has more control when they choose onshoring compared to offshoring.

Quality Control in Onshoring Custom Manufacturing

Quality control is another serious issue. Separating product development and manufacturing operations can be extremely detrimental. If prototyping and product development are conducted in the States while production heads overseas, quality and consistency may suffer greatly.

Managerial focus, when operations are halfway around the world, lends  a significant disadvantage. Partnering with experts who possess vast experience places you in a position of strength. Close proximity to vendors allows site visits which in turn consistent quality inspection.

Meeting with vendors and suppliers face-to-face creates the opportunity to build long-term trusting relationships. The opportunity to see your products in production while also meeting the actual individuals producing your product delivers incredible value. 

Wrapping It Up

Thanks for stopping by to check out this post. We deeply appreciate it.

 To learn more about Falconer Electronics, check out these helpful links on Ground Straps: 

Lastly, to learn more about Wire Harness Manufacturing, check out these helpful links: 

/0 Comments/by
Building Trust

19 Tips on the Art of Building Trust (Plus a Bonus Tip from Warren Buffett)

 

Building Trust

As an eager student of life, I long for the knowledge and tools to further myself in the Art of Building Trust.

Building Trust plays a critical role with any relationship.

Trust is based on truth.

It is human nature that we all hunger for trust and truth.

However, in some cases you just can’t handle the truth.

Well, sometimes handling the truth includes dealing with a betrayal of trust.

Ever have someone violate your trust?

Most likely we have all experienced a violation of trust at some point in time.

In other cases, intentional or not, we may have been the culprit who broke the trust of another.

Either way, recovering broken trust can be a long and painful process.

For this particular conversation, let’s discuss Building Trust with business relationships.

It is so incredibly inspiring when you find an individual or business devoted to high integrity.

Surrounding yourself with people that you trust while conducting business is truly a gift. Why? Because money is involved.

Isn’t it interesting that the cliche states “never mix money with friends and family”?

Yet, as we build business relationships, don’t we strive to develop healthy relationships in the same manner as friends and family?

Have you ever walked out of a meeting where you felt the need to take a shower immediately after? Why? Because money was involved and you felt others at the meeting were fixed on taking yours.

So let’s add, “never mix money with friends and family AS WELL AS those who you feel the need to take a shower after meeting”.

The Art of Building Trust

No alt text provided for this image

In the early stages of a business relationship does someone trust you immediately? Most likely not.

It takes time.

The same goes with developing a skill or an art.

When watching an amazing performance of a top athlete, musician, or artist, most spectators have no idea of the hours upon hours required with rehearsing and practicing that goes on behind the scenes.

To develop that art it takes lots heart and passion. Hard work. Commitment. Determination. Commitment. Persistence. Overcoming mistakes. Practice. Routine. Healthy habits.

The same goes with healthy business relationships. It takes weeks, months or even years with……

  • Building Trust.
  • Establishing Trust.
  • Earning Trust.
  • Nurturing Trust.

However, it only takes moments to completely destroy that trust.

Yet, trust doesn’t necessarily mean that you like someone.

An interesting question popped up while discussing this topic with a colleague:

Would you rather do business with someone you like but do not trust as opposed to someone that you don’t like but fully trust?

So how is trust created?

Let’s dig further……

Definition of Trust

Building Trust

Is building trust truly an art form?

How do you define building trust?

Webster’s defines trust as:

1 a : assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone or something

b : one in which confidence is placed

2a : dependence on something future or contingent  : HOPE

b : reliance on future payment for property (such as merchandise) delivered  :CREDIT bought furniture on trust

3a : a property interest held by one person for the benefit of another

b : a combination of firms or corporations formed by a legal agreement especially  : one that reduces or threatens to reduce competition

4a :  CARE,  CUSTODY the child committed to her trust

b(1) : a charge or duty imposed in faith or confidence or as a condition of some relationship

(2) : something committed or entrusted to one to be used or cared for in the interest of another

LinkedIn is an amazing platform loaded with professionals who deliver invaluable messages and helpful pieces of advice on Building Trust.

For example, Edward Zia Founder of Excellence Above Coaching in Australia (Marketing Mentor, Business Commentator, Blogger and 4Networking Leader) shared his thoughts on the Art of Building Trust:

“At the end of the day you can say what you want, people will measure trust by your consistent actions and behaviors on a daily basis. So watch out and make sure that you are doing the RIGHT thing.”

Who Do You Trust AND Who Trusts You?

Building Trust

Who is the first person that comes to your mind regarding Building Trust?

  • Your significant other
  • Parent
  • Coach
  • Teacher
  • Mentor
  • Boss
  • Friend
  • Relative
  • Religious leader

When conducting business, who do you trust? More importantly, who trusts you?

  • Employees
  • Vendors
  • Customers
  • Service providers

That is what makes referrals such a powerful tool. When a TRUSTED acquaintance recommends your product or service, immediate credibility takes place.

19 Tips for Building Trust (Plus a Bonus Tip from Warren Buffet)

No alt text provided for this image

Well I certainly do not claim to be an expert or guru on Building Trust.

My goal is to simply continue earning trust by working relentlessly with an authentic and genuine passion to help others.

So without any research or academic accolades on Building Trust, below includes “Trust Builders” that have developed over the years in my world:

  1. Choose integrity first
  2. Healthy communication
  3. Always be helping
  4. Say “I’m sorry” quickly
  5. Take accountability
  6. Be open to constructive feedback (yes, accept criticism)
  7. Confront the brutal facts (Thank you Jim Collins in “Good to Great”)
  8. Challenge others on your team to be the best
  9. LISTEN intently
  10. Be present
  11. Strive to ask really good questions
  12. Empathy
  13. Authenticity
  14. Eagerly give credit to others
  15. Know what you are talking about
  16. Ability to say when you do NOT know what you are talking about
  17. Know when to Keep. Your. Mouth. Shut. (K.Y.M.S)
  18. Strive for radical humility (Thank you Wayne Dyer for that one)
  19. Uncompromising commitment to the success of others

Lastly, a bonus tip on building trust from Warren Buffet.

No alt text provided for this image

Live by the Warren Buffet’s Newspaper Test:

Act as if every decision made winds up on a front page article “written by a smart but pretty unfriendly reporter” that will be read by your family, friends and neighbors.”

Wrapping It Up

Thanks for stopping by to check out this post. We deeply appreciate it.

 To learn more about Falconer Electronics, check out these helpful links on Ground Straps: 

Lastly, to learn more about Wire Harness Manufacturing, check out these helpful links: 

 

 

 
 
 

/0 Comments/by

Offshoring: How it Affects Our Country’s Economy

Offshoring occurs when a company chooses to have their production outsourced to a country outside the United States.

This is due to the hope that their labor costs will be lower.

However, there’s something these companies don’t realize.

Their actions will have a negative effect on the country as a whole.

Offshoring

Offshoring Effects the Economy

There is an effect on the economy when production moves out of the United States.

However, it is not noticeable right away.

This is due to the manner in which a company outsources their business.

In some cases, a company does this in stages.

However, when a company begins to offshore, even just a single production line, it can affect the local economy by: 

  • Decreasing Jobs 
  • Reducing Consumer Spending
  • Negatively Impacting Local Business 

Decreasing Jobs

When companies all over the U.S. begin moving their businesses offshore, there are consequences.

Consequences such as:

  • A decrease in American jobs in favor of an overseas workforce that is cheaper.
  • Additionally, companies terminating some or all of the positions in America.
  • An increase to the unemployment rates for the U.S.
  • Furthermore, a decrease in the amount of monetary flow which will eventually affect the entire country.

Production Effects Consumer Spending 

Offshoring production heightens the economy in other countries. Meanwhile, the economy in our own country will decrease.

This is due to employees spending less caused by reduced income. 

Therefore, those funds are no longer circulating throughout the U.S.

However, this lack of circulated money doesn’t just affect the larger companies.

It makes it more difficult for small and local businesses to thrive as well.

Furthermore, individuals are less likely to spend their money on U.S. based products.

Especially, if there is less money to go around.

Eventually, money goes toward products that are lower in quality from cheap labor countries.

Furthermore, this will increase unemployment.  

Offshoring and It’s Impact on Local Businesses

Offshoring does not just affect larger businesses who move out.

When companies and jobs leave a community, it also negatively affects the businesses that are still here.

Fewer jobs lowers consumer spending. 

The flow of money connects all businesses.

The American economy is dependent on keeping businesses here as well as their employees.

Every lost manufacturing job impacts local service providers, retailers and restaurants. 

In conclusion, the entire country suffers when companies move to other countries.  

Wrapping Up

For additional information on Wire Harness Manufacturing, please check out these helpful links below: 

Finally, for more information on Ground Straps, please click these helpful links: 

 

/0 Comments/by
,

Falconer Electronics Inc. Releases New Software Program to Help Customize Their Products: Instant Ground Strap QuoteBuilder

FALCONER, N.Y., June 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Falconer Electronics, Inc. (FEI — https://falconerelectronics.com/instant-ground-strap-quote/) recently released a proprietary free software program to help facilitate easy requests-for-quotes regarding its custom-made ground straps. The Instant Ground Strap QuoteBuilder allows customers to input data regarding specific ground strap requirements and then receive a near-instant email quote on those customizations. The entire five-step process is simple and often takes 60 seconds or less.

Ground Straps

Five-Step QuoteBuilder

  1. RoHS Compliance: Lead or Lead Free. A simple click of YES or NO indicates choice.
  2. Width and Length: Select widths for the braided wire, either one-fourth or one-half inch, then select a custom length.
  3. A and B-Side Terminal Selection: Side A and B are both offered in five sizes. Simply choose the correct size needed for the job.
  4. Terminal Orientation: Select from a range of seven pictures which clearly delineate the orientations available.
  5. Quantity: The final question allows customers to pick the specific quantity needed.

After providing contact information, other customized quotes may be added on as necessary before the process is completed. Based on the answers provided, a quote is then immediately sent to the customer’s email address, containing clickable links that allow ease-of-purchase directly through the FEI ecommerce shopping cart.  

“Since launching our QuoteBuilder, many customers (including numerous Fortune 500 companies) have utilized this helpful tool to maximize their savings and minimize the time spent seeking requests-for-quotes,” said President of FEI, Roger Hall.

Instant Ground Strap QuoteBuilder

FEI Custom Ground Straps

FEI builds its in-stock ground straps in a multitude of lengths and sizes, for an array of industry uses. Purchasing directly from FEI allows savings not possible by working through middle-man suppliers.

  • Low to High Volume: Sometimes all that is needed is one strap. There are no minimums on the number of ground straps that can be ordered.
  • Stringent Quality Control: Every ground strap is tested by experts to ensure that the strap meets the highest standards possible.
  • Made in the USA: All straps are made directly in the FEI manufacturing facility, providing jobs to local technicians and experts.

A recent customer testimonial stated, “Thanks for the excellent service. The ability to easily configure and order custom ground straps is very valuable.”

About Falconer Electronics, Inc.

A ground strap and wire harness manufacturer since 1985, Falconer Electronics, Inc. had humble beginnings within in a garage. Since then, FEI attributes its 34 year success and growth to an all-star team, many of whom have been employed with FEI for decades. With an impressive customer list, including AT&T, Best Buy, Sony, Walmart and Lowe’s, FEI assemblies and ground straps can be found nearly anywhere, including the Pentagon. Learn more at: www.FalconerElectronics.com.

/0 Comments/by
RoHS

RoHS Resources: A Guide to Restrictions of Hazardous Substances

RoHS plays an extremely important role with manufacturers. Especially with those of us manufacturing products such as Ground Straps and Wire Harness Assemblies. Yet, we find many customers have questions regarding RoHS. However, searching for RoHS resources to clear up questions can be frustrating. Therefore, we compiled this blog post containing helpful information to explain RoHS. 

RoHS Resources

RoHS

For starters, we turn to the European Commission website for an explanation of RoHS:

EU legislation restricting the use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) and promoting the collection and recycling of such equipment has been in force since February 2003. The legislation provides for the creation of collection schemes where consumers return their used waste EEE free of charge. The objective of these schemes is to increase the recycling and/or re-use of such products.

The legislation also requires certain hazardous substances (heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium and flame retardants such as polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) or polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE)) to be substituted by safer alternatives. Waste EEE poses environmental and health risks if inadequately treated. The RoHS and WEEE directives on electrical and electronic equipment were recast in 2011 and 2012 to tackle the fast increasing waste stream of such products.

The aim is to increase the amount of waste EEE that is appropriately treated and to reduce the volume that goes to disposal.

What does RoHS stand for?

RoHS = Restrictions of Hazardous Substances

Who is responsible for compliance according to RoHS resources?

The European Union restricts hazardous substances, specifically in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE).

Compliance responsibility falls on the manufacturer. Yet, the importer of the electrical products also retains responsibility for products manufactured overseas. The actual distributor/retailer selling the electrical products is held responsible for this compliance as well.

When did RoHS begin?

RoHS went into force in February 2003:

In the beginning, RoHS was put in place, to restrict the use of certain materials in Europe. This was due to their hazardous nature. Therefore, the use of these restricted materials was regulated within electrical devices. Since July 1, 2006, every electrical device in the European Union must pass RoHS mandates.

How do RoHS resources define EEE? 

Electrical and Electronic Equipment is defined as equipment which is dependent on electric currents or electromagnetic fields in order to work properly and equipment for the generation, transfer and measurement of such currents and fields. As a general rule of thumb, if it has a battery or needs a power supply to work properly, it is EEE and there are structures in place to reuse/recycle this equipment when it reaches end of life.

EEE  includes 10 categories:

  • Large household appliances
  • As well as, small household appliances
  • IT and telecommunications equipment
  • Consumer equipment
  • Lighting equipment
  • Also, electrical and electronic  tools (with the exception of large-scale stationary industrial tools)
  • Toys, leisure as well as sports equipment
  • Medical devices (with the exception of all implanted and infected products)
  • Monitoring and control instruments
  • Finally, automatic dispensers

What type of materials have bans according to RoHS resources?

RoHS bans materials deemed hazardous. There is confirmation that these materials are harmful to the environment as well as people. In addition, these hazardous materials contribute to pollution. The following list consists of hazardous materials:

  • Lead (Pb)

  • Mercury (Hg)

  • Cadmium (Cd)

  • Hexavalent Chromium (CrVI)

  • Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB)

  • Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE)

  • Finally some Phthalates

    • DEHP
    • BBP
    • DIBP

What testing is done according to RoHS Resources?

When RoHS tests a product for compliance, they use two analyzers. These two analyzers check and confirm that products comply with restrictions.

The two types of testing analyzers for RoHS include:

  • X-ray fluorescence
  • Also, XRF metal analyzers

Additional RoHS Resources

Below includes a list of additional RoHS resources:

Wrapping It Up

Lastly, to learn more about Wire Harness Manufacturing, check out these helpful links: 

In addition, check out these helpful links on Ground Straps: 

 

/0 Comments/by
Turn The Ship Around

Book Review: “Turn the Ship Around! A True Story of Turning Followers Into Leaders”

“Turn the Ship Around!” 

Sounds easy enough, right? Not exactly! 

Many drivers have a tough time parallel parking a car or conducting a proper K-turn. 

Imagine actually turning this ship around? 

Seems like a daunting task, right?

Well, do you ever feel like your business is a mammoth ship that needs turned around? 

Especially those companies that have been around for a long time. 

In particular, manufacturers that have layers of processes and systems. 

Long existing businesses suffer with Sacred Cowititis (I just made that up – sounds like a future blog). 

You know, those dreaded sacred processes that nobody has the time or energy to change. 

Yet, you want to change, but how? 

Just to take that first step, most of us need a playbook. 

Well, we have just what the doctored ordered. 

To turn your ship around, grab a copy of the amazing book, “Turn the Ship Around!” by author L. David Marquet. 

Turn the Ship Around! 

Turn The Ship Around

To gain a clear vision of what it takes to “Turn the Ship Around”, L. David Marquet offers explicit details with his highly acclaimed book, “Turn the Ship Around! A True Story of Turning Followers Into Leaders”.

“Turn the Ship Around” is an AMAZING book on leadership, team building and accomplishing organizational goals. 

 Fortune magazine called the book the “best how-to manual anywhere for managers on delegating, training, and driving flawless execution.”

Disrupting processes in a bureaucratic organization such as the Navy certainly makes waves (sorry for the pun, I couldn’t help myself). 

Yet, Marquet did just that. 

He took over the leadership position of a submarine that had struggled for many years. 

Marquet instilled empowerment, welcomed constructive feedback, and created leaders who thrived. 

Check out this video describing “Leadership on a Submarine”: 

About the Author: L. David Marquet

Captain Marquet graduated from the Naval Academy in 1981.

Then served in the U.S. submarine force for 28 years. Marquet was assigned the nuclear powered submarine USS Santa Fe, which at the time was ranked last in operational standing and retention.

To “Turn the Ship Around”, he took a new approach to turn the last place ranking into first. He did so by treating his team as leaders and granting autonomy and control. 

Shifting from the traditional “take control, give orders” approach, Marquet’s crew achieved the highest retention and operational standing in the Navy. 

Below includes an excerpt from “Turn the Ship Around” the describes Marquet’s leadership philosophy: 

“W. Edwards Deming lays out the leadership principles that became known as TQL, or Total Quality Leadership. This had a big effect on me. It showed me how efforts to improve the process made the organization more efficient, while efforts to monitor the process made the organization less efficient. What I hadn’t understood was the pernicious effect that “We are checking up on you” has on initiative, vitality, and passion until I saw it in action on Santa Fe.”

After David’s departure from the ship, the Santa Fe continued to win awards and promoted a disproportionate number of officers and enlisted men to positions of increased responsibility, including ten subsequent submarine captains. Furthermore, upon visiting Marquet’s ship, best selling author Stephen R. Covey said it was the most empowering organization he’d ever seen. Covey was so impressed, he wrote about Captain Marquet’s leadership practices in his book, “The 8th Habit”.

Marquet concluded his illustrious career when he retired from the Navy in 2009. 

 
Check out this video from David Marquet on “Turn the Ship Around”: 

Quotes from “Turn the Ship Around”

  • When the performance of a unit goes down after an officer leaves, it is taken as a sign that he was a good leader, not that he was ineffective in training his people properly.

  • Achieve excellence, don’t just avoid errors. Build trust and take care of your people. Use your legacy for inspiration. Use guiding principles for decision criteria.

  • What it does mean is giving them every available tool and advantage to achieve their aims in life, beyond the specifics of the job.

  • Use immediate recognition to reinforce desired behaviors. Begin with the end in mind. Encourage a questioning attitude over blind obedience.

  • Are you content with the reason “Well, mistakes just happen” when it comes to managing your business? We rejected the inevitability of mistakes and came up with a way to reduce them.

  • Excellence was going to be more than a philosophy statement pasted to the bulkhead; it was going to be how we lived, ate, and slept.

  • ACHIEVE EXCELLENCE, DON’T JUST AVOID ERRORS is a mechanism for CLARITY. (The book to read is Simon Sinek’s Start with Why.)

  • CONTINUALLY AND CONSISTENTLY REPEAT THE MESSAGE is a mechanism for COMPETENCE. Repeat the same message day after day, meeting after meeting, event after event.

  • When I’ve conducted this exercise, I usually find that the worries fall into two broad categories: issues of competence and issues of clarity. 

  • There was an emphasis on blaming what was happening on outside influences and factors, and the crew evidenced a collective lack of responsibility. 

Marquet Asks Challenging Questions

Lastly, below includes a list of challenging questions that Marquet asks: 

  • How do you respond when people in your workplace don’t want to change from the way things have always been done?

  • What are some of the costs associated with doing things differently in your industry?

  • Do we act first, and think later? Or do we think first, and then change our actions?

Wrapping It Up

Thank you for reading our post. To learn more about Falconer Electronics, check out these helpful links below:

 

/0 Comments/by
American National Standards Institute

Feeling Less Antsy with ANSI: The American National Standards Institute

What comes to mind when you hear the word ANSI? Sounds like antsy, right? Consequently, the ANSI for today’s discussion is based on the American National Standards Institute? 

However if you are in manufacturing, odds are you find yourself familiar with both terms. 

By the way, where did feeling “Antsy” derive from? Having “ants in your pants”? 

Merriam-Webster  defines “antsy” as feeling nervous, fidgety, nervous and restless.

Yet, feeling antsy as a manufacturer certainly could be justified. 

Especially on those crazy days where you feel like all you are doing is putting out fires. 

For example, dealing with tariffs, increasing costs, hiring challenges, foreign competition as well as searching for reliable vendors all lead to potential stress and anxiety. 

Anyway, let’s discuss the other ANSI, the American National Standards Institute. 

More importantly, this ANSI helps to reduce feeling antsy and stressed. 

ANSI = American National Standards Institute

 

The American National Standards Institute offers a wealth of industry information. 

ANSI encompasses safety standards, manufacturing and production standards, ISO Quality Management, production design standards and much more. 

The American National Standards Institute serves: 

As the voice of the U.S. standards and conformity assessment system, the American National Standards Institute empowers its members and constituents to strengthen the U.S. marketplace position in the global economy while helping to assure the safety and health of consumers and the protection of the environment.

The Institute oversees the creation, promulgation and use of thousands of norms and guidelines that directly impact businesses in nearly every sector: from acoustical devices to construction equipment, from dairy and livestock production to energy distribution, and many more. ANSI is also actively engaged in accreditation – assessing the competence of organizations determining conformance to standards.

In addition, the mission at ANSI includes the following:

“To enhance both the global competitiveness of U.S. business and the U.S. quality of life by promoting and facilitating voluntary consensus standards and conformity assessment systems, and safeguarding their integrity.”

ANSI History

Founded on October 19, 1918, ANSI celebrated its 100 year anniversary last year. The agencies and organizations that founded ANSI: 

 Subsequently, all of these agencies also invited the U.S. Departments of War, Navy and Commerce to join them as founders of ANSI.

Check this video below to learn more about ANSI: 

ANSI Webstore 

The ANSI webstore allows users to purchase industry standards on an individual basis or through subscriptions. 

Additionally ANSI also offers a comprehensive collection of standard packages. For example, packages include quality management, risk management, road vehicles, machine safety, and much more. 

ANSI Accreditation

ANSI offers accreditation services including product certification, environmental, and food safety. Accreditation ensures that goods and services meet essential requirements to provide trust as well as foster competitiveness.  

Wrapping It Up

Thank you for reading our post. To learn more about Falconer Electronics, check out these helpful links below:

 

/0 Comments/by
The Goal

Book Review of “The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement”

What on earth took me so long to read “The Goal” by Eliyahu M. Goldratt and Jeff Cox? The first edition came out in 1984.

Several years ago a close friend, Max Krug, introduced the book “The Goal” as well as the Theory of Constraints. Consequently, Max is a Theory of Constraints (TOC) expert and consultant. Max preaches maximizing efficiency and throughput. He is an operational excellence guru and thank goodness he recommended this outstanding resource. To learn more about Max, click here. 

Anyway, “The Goal” is the rare business book that demonstrates a game-changing philosophy and strategy described in a fictional story. A story that flows as a well written & page-turning novel.

This business classic is truly a must read for any entrepreneur or business manager. Especially for those in manufacturing. Minimizing constraints while maximizing efficiency and profits is the name of the game. 

The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement

The Goal

Instead of a book just based on theories with boring calculations and models, the authors tell a fictional story of a plant manager who is obsessed with his work.

The book opens with the protagonist, Alex Rogo, plant manager of UniCo pulling into the company parking lot. Only to find his parking space occupied by a crimson Mercedes. Even though the parking lot is nearly empty.

The Mercedes occupying his parking space belongs Bill Peach, division vice president. Bill Peach visits Alex’s plant to address order #41427 that is not only 7 weeks late but also belongs to UniCo’s largest customer.

Needless to say, this large customer is not pleased. The division vice president then informs Alex that he has three months to turn the plant around. Otherwise, Peach plans to go to the management committee with a recommendation to close the plant.

90 days. That’s it!

Combined with rumors flying around that the entire division will be sold if a turnaround doesn’t come soon.

So the journey begins with Alex trying to become a hero and save the day. Save the plant. In addition, save his job as well as his career.

The book details the events necessary with averting closure while turning around a manufacturing plant. How? Applying a new strategic approach. 

Advancing efficiencies. Vastly improving cash flow and profit margins. Preventing the damage that a plant closure causes a small community. Saving hundreds of jobs as well as all of the families that would be negatively impacted.

Furthermore, the book describes the challenges that a manager faces not only with job security and the threat of his plant being closed, but also his own personal struggles at home. Work-life balance is a hot topic commonly discussed today. Marital problems. Raising kids. That is all here. 

Jonah to the Rescue

While waiting in an airline lounge for a connection at O’Hare, Alex runs into Jonah. Jonah was a physicist professor that Alex knew from college. Alex received a grant to study the mathematical models that Jonah was working on at the time.

Alex updates Jonah on his career and shares exciting information on UniCo. Jonah immediately sees through Alex’s exaggeration of optimism (aka B.S.) and starts questioning Alex about the inefficiencies at his plant. Alex is dumbfounded and questions how could an academic understand his business and manufacturing?

“I am a scientist”, Jonah says “And right now you could say I’m doing work in the science of organizations in particular.”

Jonah continues, “productivity is the act of bringing a company closer to its goal. Every action that brings a company closer to its goal is productive. Every action that does not bring a company closer to its goal is not productive.”

Alex tries to explain how his plant measures efficiencies through benchmarks and formulas. Jonah explains, “You think you’re running an efficient plant….but your thinking is wrong”.

What is “The Goal”? 

As Jonah boards his plane, he leaves Alex with the burning thought, “Alex, you cannot understand the meaning of productivity unless you know what the goal is. Until then, you’re just playing a lot of games with numbers and words.”

That meeting kicks off Alex’s quest to discover “The Goal”.

Alex finally discovers the goal of his plant. Actually, the goal of any organization for that matter: Make money and maintain sustainability.

Most importantly, create profits and positive cash flow.  

Once Alex finally discovers “The Goal”, then his adventure truly begins.

How to actually obtain “The Goal”?

  • Identify constraints
  • Maximize throughput
  • Increase profits
  • Lower expenses
  • Decrease inventory
  • Improve inventory turnover
  • Reduce lead times
  • Hit delivery times

To discover if Alex saves the plant along with the hundreds of jobs, grab yourself a copy of “The Goal” today! 

Wrapping It Up

Thank you for reading our post. 

To learn more about Falconer Electronics, check out these helpful links below:

/0 Comments/by
American Manufacturing

Reap the Benefits of Outsourcing Manufacturing in the U.S.

Outsourcing manufacturing in the U.S. continues to show many signs of steady growth. For example, according to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), American manufacturing contributed $2.33 TRILLION to the U.S. economy during 1st quarter of 2018.

To put that figure in perspective, American manufacturing output alone would be the 9th largest economy in the world. Consequently, only eight other countries, including the U.S. would rank higher in GDP. (Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, International Monetary Fund)

Additionally, according to the Department of Labor, since 2010, employment numbers in the U.S. Manufacturing sector continues to show healthy growth since the Great Recession (Chart retrieved from the Department of labor Employment, Hours, and Earnings from the Current Employment Statistics survey).

Top Benefits of Outsourcing Manufacturing in the U.S.

So what does this information mean for your company?

A burning question for all companies outsourcing manufacturing includes: do we outsource manufacturing in the U.S. or find a cheap labor country?

Well, outsourcing manufacturing invites many challenges, domestically or abroad.

A great deal of vulnerability comes with outsourcing manufacturing. It takes incredible trust to contract with another company.

If the product is manufactured incorrectly, who pays for that mistake?

Though outsourcing manufacturing in the U.S. is off its peak, plenty of strengths and benefits exist with American manufacturing.

Additionally, many industries and products still make cents to manufacturer in the USA in spite of the fierce competition from cheap labor countries.

Yet, plenty of risks exist beyond your control when importing products from overseas.

Below includes a number of  issues to address with outsourcing manufacturing overseas:

  1. Fraud & stolen intellectual property
  2. Language barriers
  3. No ocean to cross
  4. Flexibility
  5. Low minimums 
  6. Quality
  7. Cultural differences
  8. Labor practices
  9. Shorter lead times
  10. Unpredictability & Uncertainty 

Let’s dig a little deeper.

#1) Fraud & Stolen Intellectual Property 

When purchasing products from other countries, are you truly in control?

Outsourcing manufacturing to a trusted partner is crucial.

What if your CAD drawings, proprietary processes or intellectual property end up in the wrong hands?

Do you know a good lawyer in that country?

Fighting copyright or patent infringement abroad invites steep challenges. Actually, it can become a nightmare.

Especially if you possess patented products.

Additionally, protecting your intellectual property also plays a critical role with outsourcing manufacturing.

However, protection for U.S. patented products only extends with the United States. According to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, you must apply for patent protection in that country you plan on outsourcing manufacturing operations. Most countries have their own patent law. So, even though you spend a small fortune protecting your product here at home, your patent fails to protect you beyond U.S. borders.

Concerns:

  • Patent Protection
  • Violated NDA
  • Copyright and Intellectual Property Infringement
  • Money Exchange Fraud

Do a Google search for “Chinese Knockoffs” and you will find an interesting list of articles.

For example, click here to check out “The 46 Craziest Chinese Counterfeit Products” from Ranker.com.

#2) Language Barriers = Lost in Translation

Ever have a miscommunication or a “lost in translation” with a friend or relative over a text or email?

Sometimes we still have a misunderstanding with close friends via digital communication like email or text?

Can you think of situations where you misunderstood a text or email from a spouse, friend, parent, a child or someone you know intimately?

Email or a text causes challenges. Was the sender being funny? Serious? Were they joking or angry?

You cannot sense the tone with digital communication.

Now combine that with translation challenges.

Especially with slang, lingo or even industry terms that can cause mistakes.

Now combine those communication challenges with someone in another country. Who does not know you and is unfamiliar with your language. Your lingo. Your sense of humor. 

What if critical details translate incorrectly?

  • Colors
  • Sizes
  • Lengths
  • Width
  • Gauges
  • Raw material

#3) No Ocean to Cross 

Ever cross an ocean via ship? Plenty of variables and perils exist that include:

  • Weathering storms = Bad storms = Tsunamis
  • Cargo Insurance
  • Theft
  • Time Delays
  • Dock Time
  • Long lead times
  • What if product is manufactured wrong?
  • Can you get a prototype first?
  • Import fees
  • Broker fees
  • Tariffs
  • What if your products get seasick or fall overboard?
  • Lastly, how about Sharks – Big Sharks – that bite – really hard

#4) Flexibility 

 

Wouldn’t life be much easier if we could all predict buyer behavior or customer purchasing patterns?

Unfortunately business life doesn’t work that way. Events occur where a customer suddenly needs products….NOW!

Sometimes it seems customers need their products…….yesterday.

When you are on the buying side and need product right away, vendor flexibility becomes critical.

Furthermore, it helps your business tremendously when flexible vendors rush orders for you.

Partnering with strong allies who change gears immediately for you offers tremendous benefits. 

#5) Low Minimums

For all of the fees, hassles and challenges with importing, odds are you need to purchase large quantities to make sense.

Yet, what if you just need a prototype?

How about a temporary product with a short production run?

What if you do not need a container load of product?

Is the low price worth purchasing product that you will never sell?

Is dead inventory sitting on the shelf an asset or liability?

Turnover your product fast. Keep it moving. Relentless pursue positive cash flow. Take advantage of domestic manufacturers to help your cause with turning over inventory quickly. Utilize their warehouse space to help minimize your overhead costs.

Many years ago I purchased a container load of product that had a long lead time. It took over 9 months to receive the product. By that time, my customers went else where. I was stuck with tens of thousands of dollars in unsaleable product. 100% my fault. A painful lesson learned.

#6) Quality

“Made in America” symbolizes high quality. Outsourcing manufacturing in the U.S. means products are produced by your neighbors, relatives and members of your community.

Though Patriotism is a great reason to buy “Made in USA” products, there needs to be more.

Consequently consumers and businesses speak loudly with their wallets and credit cards.

Put out a bad product however “Made in USA” only goes so far.

Yet, partnering with a U.S. manufacturer allows you to work closely ensuring the high quality that your customers expect. 

#7) Cultural Differences

Do you have certain businesses or products that you prefer not to support for various personal reasons? Possibly you don’t agree with product content. The company branding message. Maybe you just don’t care for what the company represents in your eyes.

When you purchase from a foreign manufacturer, are you certain that you share the same values? Do they have the same value on safety as you? Quality? 

Workers rights also fall into this category. Do we hold companies and manufacturers in other countries at the same standards as here in the U.S.? Hot topics in the U.S. currently include the $15 minimum wage, paternal leave, LGBT rights, sexual harassment and pay gap for women.

Consequently, as American consumers, are we aware of where China stands on a number of these important issues? 

In addition on a personal note, ever heard of the Yulan China Dog Meat Festival? (Did I really just type “Dog Meat Festival”??)  According to this article from Marc Ching at Forbes, this community event sounds…….deeply disturbing (I need to go hug my dog now). 

 

#8) Labor Practices

This ties in with the last point. Along with cultural differences, do you truly know the labor practices of the company where you have decided to outsources your manufacturing process?

Do foreign outsource partners share the same safety concerns for their employees that you do?

Wages? Benefits? Working conditions? Integrity? Injuries? Child labor? 

American manufacturers follow state and federal laws on all of these topics. 

For example, states in force minimum wages. Additionally OSHA patrols safety concerns at American manufacturers. 

#9) Shorter Lead Times

Did we mention no ocean to cross? For example, need something shipped overnight from your domestic manufacturer? No problem.

In addition, they might even be able to ship a package with regular ground service and have the package arrive to you in a timely fashion. At a low cost as well.

Isn’t the name of the game to put product in your customers hands as fast as possible? 

Reducing lead times helps increase inventory turnover, lowers inventory levels and drastically improves cash flow. 

#10) Unpredictability & Uncertainty

 

Lastly, have you been following the stock market lately? Markets seem to despise unpredictability and uncertainty.

Even though entrepreneurs and business owners are risk takers by nature, unpredictability and uncertainty certainly add tremendous stress.

However, minimizing risks makes live much easier. Especially when unpredictability and uncertainty can be reduced.

Outsourcing manufacturing in the U.S. offers opportunities to drastically increase stability.

Domestic vendors eliminates the challenges of dealing fluctuating currencies. 

Partnering with U.S. manufacturers also avoids of dealing with political unrest in those countries. Did you just roll your eyes with that comment?

Though political times are heated here in the U.S., we still live in the greatest country on the planet! That’s just our humble opinion. 

Wrapping It Up

Thank you for reading our post. 

To learn more about Falconer Electronics, check out these helpful links below:

 

 

/0 Comments/by

Helpful Suggestions to “Give Value First”

When looking for a new vendor, do you seek companies that “Give Value First”?

Partnering with the right vendor delivers powerful results for your company.

  • Improves productivity
  • Increases profitability
  • Enhances quality

However, selecting the wrong vendor typically leads to frustration and disappointment. Possibly even worse.

Think back to the reasons that contributed to you selecting your vendors in the beginning of the relationship?

How did you find them in the first place? Online search? Through word of mouth? A sales rep?

What factors contributed to you selecting them as a vendor?

So what separates your vendors from their competition?

Price? Quality? Delivery times? Reliability? Comfort?

More importantly, what separates you from your competition?

Why do customers partner with you?

Give Value First

To turn it around, does your company “Give Value First”?

Many companies talk about “added value”. Wouldn’t it be great if they would “Give Value First”, instead of adding it on later?

Here is a fantastic video from sales guru and acclaimed author, Jeffrey Gitomer sharing his thoughts on “Give Value First”:

 

Teaming Up With The Experts 

However, “Give Value First” is all about building business relationships based on trust.

For example, hate doing your own taxes? Team up with a trustworthy and reliable accountant.

Furthermore, the same can be said for an attorney, banker and insurance representative. In each case, you hire professionals that provide the expertise necessary to prevent you from harms way.

You hire these professionals respectively to keep you out of trouble with taxes, legal issues, cash accessibility and other various liabilities such as accidents or property damage.

Partnering with a credible and trustworthy professional lends tremendous benefits to your business.

In other words, these professionals contribute to your profitability and success. Hopefully.

Think back to the factors that led you to selecting professionals that each play a crucial role in your business.

At some point in the early stages, each professional delivered value to you consummating that relationship.

Custom Manufacturers Providing Value

As a custom manufacturer, new customers come to all of us for our experience and expertise.

A potential customer approaches a new vendor with a level of expectations.

Expectations that the tasks will be performed with the highest quality. In addition, offering the most competitive prices possible. Delivering on time serves as another critical factor as well.

However, all manufacturers like to claim high quality, competitive prices, and on-time delivery. Otherwise, we would all go be out of business. Right?

A customer approaches a custom manufacturer to tackle tasks that the company is unable to perform.

So how do we separate ourselves from the rest of the pack?

Supply Chain Defined

What is your customer’s primary concern? Typically it is THEIR customer.

I recently heard a great analogy on how the supply chain works.

At a workshop, the speaker asked everyone to turn to their right. Then asked, what do you see?

The answer? The back of the head of the person to the right.

The speaker noted that is exactly how a supply chain works.

Everyone is looking down stream towards THEIR customer.

Companies are so busy taking care of their customers that they don’t want to have to look backward and worry about you as the vendor.

It’s all about the WIIFM = “What’s in it for me”.

As manufacturers, how can we strive to improve our competitive edge?

How can we go above and beyond quality, price and on-time delivery?

How can we dedicate ourselves to “Give Value First”?

For example, exceeding customer expectations allows the opportunity to establish loyal customer relationships.

Solve their problems. Help them exploit opportunities.

Make the customer a hero with THEIR customer and THEIR boss.

This link includes an excellent article from Forbes on “Value-First Advertising: How To Give To Consumers While Selling”.

Inc.com offers this fantastic piece on “Give Value First”: “How Can I Help? Why ‘Adding Value First’ Is the Winning Formula for Growth”.

Steps to “Give Value First”

Give Value First

What steps can you take to “Give Value First”?

Below includes a list of suggestions to help:

  • Blog on relevant topics
  • Provide technical information on your website about your products or services
  • Attack your keywords on Google so customers easily find your website
  • Shorten the RFQ process to reduce wait times
  • Educate – offer product white papers or tips on best practices
  • Post helpful videos and how to’s
  • Offer free online tools that help customers make buying decisions
  • Help make connections for your customers with other non-competitive vendors or suppliers
  • Answer questions
  • Refer a book or resource

Dedicating ourselves to each customer’s profitability and success is a winning formula.

What value propositions work best for you and your company?

Wrapping It Up

Thank you for reading our post on “Give Value First”. To learn more about Falconer Electronics, check out these helpful links below:

 

 

 

 

 

/0 Comments/by
,

Blogging Benefits for Manufacturers

Does blogging really work for manufacturers? In particular, for custom manufacturers? Are blogging benefits really worth the time and investment?

Common questions that manufacturers ask when considering a blog strategy:

  • Will blogging help increase our search rankings?
  • Does blogging actually help increase traffic?
  • As a manufacturer what topics should we even type about?
  • Will anyone have interest in what we blog about?

These are all excellent questions as well as legitimate concerns.

Actually, blogging just sounds like a lot of work with few rewards, right?

Blogging Benefits & Results Blogging Benefits

Well, thanks to blogging and focusing on internet marketing strategies, our company has realized dramatic results.

First, our website traffic increased nearly 1000% from November 2017 compared to November 2018.

For example, our month over month search traffic increase from September 2018 compared to October 2018 hit 54%.

In addition, traffic jumped from September 2018 to November 2018 nearly 100%.

That is a big victory for a small business like ours.

Of course, we still have a LONG way to go. No champagne popping at this point.

Second, search rankings for our keywords continue to progress extremely well.

Third, companies have started sharing our posts on social media as well as using our links.

Lastly, blogging has opened new doors and created exciting connections for our team.

For more information on blogging for manufacturers:

Blogging Benefits: Follow the ProsBlogging Benefits

We credit this dramatic traffic increase from closely following internet marketing experts such as:

Protocol 80 also provides fantastic content to help manufacturers with blogging:

Following these experts created a solid game plan with our marketing efforts. Why reinvent the wheel while proven strategies already exist?

What to Blog About?

Helping our customers is our primary goal.

As a manufacturer, making top quality products as well as delivering on time are key components to success.

Yet, it goes so much deeper than just quality and delivering on time.

Building healthy relationships is critical.

Delivering a deep commitment to helping customers increases profitability.

We work closely with many customers on new product development. This list includes brand new start ups as well as businesses with decades of history.

Those conversations with new product development frequently include, “How do we market the product?”

We consider ourselves a partner or extension of our customers.

We relish engaging in conversations on internet marketing strategies with our customers.

Especially when a new strategy or tactic works extremely well.

It’s great when we share ideas or show a new specific approach that generates increased traffic.

So, this year we started blogging about online B2B Marketing strategies.

Several posts included:

In addition, product informational posts include:

Our team works diligently to deliver value to our customers.

This includes our desire to provide valuable content.

Wrapping It Up

Thank for reading our post on Blogging Benefits for Manufacturers.

Lastly, let’s get social! We would love to connect with you on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn.

 

 

 

 

 

/0 Comments/by
Government Publishing Ofiice

U.S. Government Publishing Office: Outstanding Resource for Businesses

In a recent blog, we discussed an extremely hot topic: tariffs. However, we are still nursing a blog hangover from that one. After all, you need a PhD in Economics to fully understand everything going on with tariffs these days, right? Well, while researching tariffs, the United States Government Publishing Office (GPO) website hit our radar (Click here).Government Publishing Ofiice

U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO)

Let’s face it, small business owners need help while encountering daily challenges. Especially when it comes to figuring out new government policy. As an American manufacturer trying to gain a clear understanding on tariffs certainly added to the list of challenges this year.

Additionally, researching government related issues and topics demand time and energy.

Therefore, discovering a website that provides helpful and timely information is priceless.

For example, the U.S. Government Publishing Office offers a wealth of helpful information for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Below includes a list of activities and responsibilities performed by the GPO:

  • Produce and distribute information products and services for all three branches of the Federal Government, including U.S. passports for the Department of State as well as the official publications of Congress, the White House, and other Federal agencies in digital and print formats.

  • Provide for permanent public access to Federal Government information at no charge through the Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) and govinfo.

Operate distribution centers in Laurel, MD and Pueblo, CO that fulfill orders for Government publications.

Check out this great video (take note of the enormous amount of paper in front of each employee during the pre-computer age):

Mission of the U.S. Government Publishing Office

According to the U.S. Government Publishing Office, the mission goes as follows:

Keeping America Informed as the official, digital, and secure source for producing, preserving, and distributing official Federal Government publications and information products for Congress, Federal agencies, and the American public.

History of the U.S. Government Publishing Office

In addition, the history of the U.S. Government Publishing Office dates back nearly 160 years:

Created by Congress in June 1860, the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO) began operation on March 4, 1861 with 350 employees. Occupying the corner of North Capitol and H Streets from its inception, GPO continues to adopt the most efficient and cost-effective production methods of delivering authentic and secure government documents and products to the American public. 

U.S. Government Bookstore 

One of the many assets that the Government Publishing Office offers includes the U.S. Government Bookstore. The U.S. Government Bookstore delivers a wide selection of government publications with books based on agency, topic and collection.

First, you can browse books on the U.S. Government Bookstore website by “Topic”. For example, the extensive list of topics includes Budget & the Economy, Business & Finance, Laws & Regulations, Science & Technology and much more.

In addition, you can also browse the website by “Government Agency”. The website offers an extensive list of agencies such as Congress & Legislative Branch, Judicial Branch & Federal Courts and The White House & Executive Office of the President. Other agencies include federal government agencies such as Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Energy, Interior, Labor, Treasury and much more.

Consequently, you can browse under the topic “Collections” as well. This list includes: New Releases, Best Sellers, eBooks, Subscriptions & Magazines and much more.

Basically any government based periodical resides on the U.S. Government Bookstore.

Free Shipping 

The Government Bookstore also offers free shipping on all products. Click below for more details:

https://bookstore.gpo.gov/customer-service/usa-shipping

Government Book Talk Blog

While checking out the Government Publishing Office website, we also discovered the Government Book Talk blog.

In particular, Government Book Talk offers excellent articles and helpful information for business owners and entrepreneurs.

The goal of the GPO blog, Government Book Talk!, states the following:

 “…..to raise the profile of some of the best publications from the Federal Government, past and present.  We’ll be reviewing new and popular publications, providing information about new publications in the offing, and talking about some out-of-print classics. The goal is to spotlight the amazing variety of Government publications and their impact on ourselves and our world – and have fun while doing it.”

Hence, the Government Book Talk Blog offers a number of outstanding topics. The post that introduced our team to the Government Book Talk blog was of course based on tariffs. Check out this great post:

What are tariffs and why are they important to U.S. citizens?

In addition, the list below includes other interesting blog posts from Government Book Talk blog:

Wrapping It Up 

Thank you for reading our post on the Government Publishing Office and the Government Book Talk Blog.

Finally, to learn more about Falconer Electronics, check out these helpful links below:

 

/0 Comments/by
e-stewards

E-Stewards: A Global Leader in Promoting Safe & Healthy Electronics Recycling

This post continues our blog series on recycling. In particular, the growing need for electronics recycling. Exploring electronics recycling led us to e-Stewards, a global leader in promoting safe and healthy electronics recycling. Click here to view the company website.

The e-Stewards Standard

Headquartered in downtown Seattle, e-Stewards targets companies serving the electronics recycling industry. A company becomes certified by a third party certifying body once the company passes the rigorous audit.

The e-Stewards Standard addresses the following:

  • Protects customers from data breach
  • Prevents toxic e-waste
  • Helps protect the environment and human health
  • Child labor
  • Fire prevention
  • International law

The company mission states:

The e-Stewards initiative defines and promotes responsible electronics reuse and recycling best practices worldwide.

The e-Stewards Standard combines 14001 and R2 (Responsible Recycling) prohibiting e-waste from being disposed in landfills and incinerators. The standard also requires full compliance with global hazardous waste treaties for the exporting and importing of electronics.

Most importantly, the e-Stewards certification offers the peace of mind to businesses and consumers alike that the certified recycling company institutes practices of integrity:

e-Stewards is a global team of individuals, institutions, businesses, non-profit organizations, and governmental agencies upholding a safe, ethical, and globally responsible standard for e-waste recycling and refurbishment. We stop the export of illegal hazardous e-waste to developing nations and create a safe, green, and just world through sharing and using the principled and practical standard for electronics recycling and reuse.

Basel Action Network

The roots of e-Stewards trace to the the Basel Action Network (BAN) which namesake derives from the 1989 United Nations Basel Convention. The BAN mission includes the following:

In 2003, the Basel Action Network, a nonprofit dedicated to turning back the tide of toxins and waste to developing nations, launched the e-Stewards Pledge program. Over forty qualified electronics recyclers with one hundred locations across the US and Canada pledged to use only globally responsible, safe means to process electronic waste, more widely known as e-waste. BAN’s e-Stewards Pledge was the only program in North America to make real progress in establishing and ensuring e-waste recycling best practices for toxic materials.

In addition, e-Stewards addresses and identifies the main culprits that cause environmental concerns with electronics recycling or e-waste. Adhering to the foundation of the 1989 United Nations Basel Convention of restricting hazardous and toxic material.

For example, revealing the risks and challenges with CRT tubes:

E-waste contains toxic metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium as well as toxic organic chemicals such as brominated flame retardants. Old style cathode-ray-tube (CRT) computer monitors can contain up to 7 pounds of lead in the CRT tubes. In addition and even more dangerous, are the toxic phosphor compound coatings inside the tube. Most circuit boards, found in virtually all e-waste, still contain toxic lead-tin solders, toxic beryllium and  persistent polluting brominated flame retardants.

Finally, check out this link which titled “Who Gets Stepped On”  which includes an interesting video.

Also, here is another video on electronics recycling best practices from 60 Minutes on CBS:

Wrapping It Up 

Thank you for reading our post. Hopefully you found this information helpful when selecting a electronics recycling firm.

Lastly, to learn more about Falconer Electronics, check out these helpful links below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/0 Comments/by
Tariffs

Struggling to Understand Tariffs? Check Out These Helpful Websites

Sometimes a word needs repeating several times to emphasize a point. For example, our topic today covers Tariffs, Tariffs, Tariffs!

Another example of a repeating a word for emphasis includes the real estate war cry, “location, location location”.

Of course, our personal favorite: “Marcia, Marcia, Marcia!” (However, you needed to have grown up in the 70’s to get this one).

What Are Tariffs? 

Anyway, tariffs lead today’s blog discussion.

First of all, let’s start out with the definition of a tariff.

We turn to our friends at Inc.com for a definition of a tariff:

“A tariff is a tax or duty imposed by one nation on the imported goods or services of another nation. Tariffs are a political tool that have been used throughout history to control the amount of imports that flow into a country and to determine which nations will be granted the most favorable trading conditions. High tariffs create protectionism, shielding a domestic industry’s products against foreign competition. High tariffs usually reduce the importation of a given product because the high tariff leads to a high price for the customers of that product.”

Government Resources to Navigate Tariffs

Tariffs certainly rose to the forefront as an extremely hot topic this year.

Yet, if you are in manufacturing, odds are your business has been impacted one way or another due to tariffs.

Especially if you purchase global parts or components.

So what has your experience been so far this year facing new tariffs?

Are tariffs having a positive impact and helping your business? Allowing you to better compete with cheap imports as intended?

On the other hand, are tariffs just causing you grief and frustration?

Tariffs seem to have caused a great deal of uncertainty this year.

For example, we found our vendors struggled this year with quoting prices due to uncertainty with tariffs. This made it difficult for our team to quickly respond to quote requests while we in turn waited for vendor responses. Some vendors raised prices in advance of the tariffs actually even taking place.

Our goal serving as an American manufacturer is to provide every tool and resource possible to help our customers better compete and reach success.

Well, if you find it challenging to follow all of the changes with tariffs, the intention of this blog is to offer some assistance.

We decided to put together a number of websites to help you navigate these changes.

Below includes a list of government agencies and websites that offer helpful information on tariffs.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) 

The Small Business Administration serves as a federal government agency that helps small businesses. The mission of the SBA:

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) was created in 1953 as an independent agency of the federal government to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns, to preserve free competitive enterprise and to maintain and strengthen the overall economy of our nation.

The SBA defines tariffs as:

Tariffs are taxes, levies, or duties on a particular category of imports. These fees are charged as a percentage of the price of an imported good paid for by a U.S. buyer. These charges are collected by U.S. Custom and Border Protection agents at all U.S. ports of entry.

The SBA also offers this blog post below with helpful information on tariffs:

What Small Businesses Should Know About Tariffs

Federal Register 

Another resource for information on tariffs includes the Federal Register which is The Daily Journal of the U.S. Government.

This link from June 20, 2018, provides information on the new tariffs from the Office of the United States Trade Representative:

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2018/06/20/2018-13248/notice-of-action-and-request-for-public-comment-concerning-proposed-determination-of-action-pursuant

Here is a summary from that post regarding new tariffs for 2018:

The U.S. Trade Representative (Trade Representative) has determined that appropriate action in this investigation includes the imposition of an additional ad valorem duty of 25 percent on products from China classified in the subheadings of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) set out in Annex A of this notice. The Trade Representative has further determined to establish a process by which U.S. stakeholders may request that particular products classified within a covered tariff subheading in Annex A be excluded from these additional duties. Further, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is seeking public comment and will hold a public hearing regarding a proposed additional action in this investigation. The proposed additional action is the imposition of an ad valorem duty of 25 percent on products of China classified in the HTSUS subheadings set out in Annex C of this notice.

Office of the United States Trade Representative 

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative also provides valuable information.

According to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) website:

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is an agency of more than 200 committed professionals with decades of specialized experience in trade issues and regions of the world:

“We negotiate directly with foreign governments to create trade agreements, to resolve disputes, and to participate in global trade policy organizations. We also meet with governments, with business groups, with legislators and with public interest groups to gather input on trade issues and to discuss the President’s trade policy positions.”

In addition, this link below shares the press release from the USTR from September 2018 regarding tariffs on Chinese imports:

USTR Finalizes Tariffs on $200 Billion of Chinese Imports in Response to China’s Unfair Trade Practices

International Trade Association 

The International Trade Administration (ITA) serves as another source for information on tariffs:

The International Trade Administration (ITA) strengthens the competitiveness of U.S. industry, promotes trade and investment, and ensures fair trade through the rigorous enforcement of our trade laws and agreements.  ITA works to improve the global business environment and helps U.S. organizations compete at home and abroad.

The ITA also offers a blog, Tradeology, which provides helpful information. For example, Tradeology  has a category called “Trade Policy“. ITA Blog posts include:

Export.gov

Export.gov also offers helpful information on tariffs. The Export.gov website states:

Export.gov helps U.S. companies plan, develop and execute international sales strategies necessary to succeed in today’s global marketplace. Developed by international trade specialists and economists, here you will find trusted market intelligence, practical advice and business tools to help you understand how to export, connect with foreign buyers, and expand operations in new markets.

In addition, the Export.gov website offers information on tariffs and import fees with this link:

https://2016.export.gov/logistics/eg_main_018130.asp

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CSP)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CSP) serves to protect U.S. borders as well as enforces U.S trade laws.

In addition, the CSP provides information on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (check link below):

Harmonized Tariff Schedule – Determining duty rates

United States International Trade Commission 

The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) also offers helpful information. The USITC is responsible for publishing the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS); the U.S. Customs Service is responsible for administering the tariff and processing import entries.

Additionally, this link from the USITC Tariff Database offers information on “Tariffs: Get past, current, and future U.S. tariff rates in multiple formats”.

U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO)

While researching tariffs, we found another excellent resource, the U.S. Government Publishing Office’s (GPO) Government. The GPO website states:

About the agency: GPO opened its doors over 150 years ago on March 4, 1861, and is part of the legislative branch of the federal government.  GPO employees have been Keeping America Informed on the documents of our democracy, in both printed and electronic form.  The agency produces the Congressional Record, Federal Register, the nation’s passports, and other Federal Government documents. It also maintains the Federal Depository Library Program to ensure public libraries nationwide have access to Federal published information.

In particular, the GPO offers an extremely helpful blog called Government Book Talk:

Welcome to the U.S. Government Publishing Office’s (GPO) Government Book Talk! Our goal is to raise the profile of some of the best publications from the Federal Government, past and present.  We’ll be reviewing new and popular publications, providing information about new publications in the offing, and talking about some out-of-print classics. The goal is to spotlight the amazing variety of Government publications and their impact on ourselves and our world – and have fun while doing it.

For example, the GPO Government Book Talk offers two extremely helpful posts:

Wrapping It Up 

Thank you for reading our post on Tariffs. Hopefully this list of government websites offer some assistance while navigating information of tariffs.

Finally, to learn more about Falconer Electronics, check out these helpful links below:

 

/0 Comments/by

Electronics Recycling

Last week we posted a blog on the Benefits of Recycling. As an electronics manufacturer, recycling plays an extremely important role in operations. Especially as the demand for electronics recycling continues to dramatically increase. Small business owners and consumers need reliable outlets for e-waste solutions. Below we explore several resourceful options.

Increasing Demand for Electronics Recycling

The use of computers and mobile devices continues to grow exponentially.

According to an article posted on the U.S. Census Bureau, reports show “a stunning increase in reported mobile broadband usage” within the U.S.

For example, 2016 data revealed that two-thirds of Americans access the internet through mobile devices.

Seems like that number must be much higher by now. It is hard to image anyone without a mobile device these days.

The Pew Research Center also reported that 84% of adults in the U.S. say their household possess a smart phone. Furthermore, 80% say they own a desktop or laptop computer.

Combine this with additional household electronic appliances such as washers, dryers, dish washers, and microwaves. In addition, throw in all of the big-screen TVs.

The National Conference of State Legislatures claim that the average household contains 24 electronic products.

To summarize, that’s a long list of electronics. Millions upon millions.

When all of these devices become unwanted and obsolete, then what?

Where do all of these electronics end up?

Electronics Recycling

E-Waste Concerns 

With these staggering household numbers of electronics ownership, just think of the amount of electronics at the average small business. Especially with the increasing reliance on electronics to run a business.

Electronic waste or e-waste is a growing concern for all small business owners.

How is e-waste defined? We turn to the e-waste experts at e-Stewards, an e-waste certification agency located in Seattle for a definition.

E-waste is defined by e-Stewards as the following:

E-waste stands for electronic waste, and is what your company, or institution generates when you replace or otherwise need to dispose of electronic assets such as phones, tablets, servers, monitors, copiers, computers, printers, fax machines, etc.

Growing e-waste concerns places a responsibility on every professional office and small business owner to figure out what to do with electronics once no longer useful.

Electronics Recycling Resources 

So, what are small business to do when it comes to electronics recycling?

Many times a small business either just doesn’t possess the necessary information or education on proper recycling practices. In other cases, employees get extremely busy. Recycling just isn’t front of mind.

Designate an internal leader to take charge of your recycling efforts.

Individuals with a passion for the environment and recycling serves well as an internal champion.

Also, take advantage of the many resources available for electronics recycling at your organization.

The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) offers helpful information of recycling options for electronics such as computers and devices: Click here. At the bottom of the page shows a list businesses that accept electronics for recycling.

For example, Best Buy offers electronics recycling, For more info click here.

Another option, find a local company that offers electronics recycling services. Conduct a Google search for “Electronics Recycling” to check out local options. Many communities offer free recycling events.

Wastecare Corporation offers recycling tips for manufacturers. Check out this link:

https://www.wastecare.com/Articles/Waste_Reduction_Recycling_Tips_Manufacturing.htm

Additional resourceful websites on electronics recycling:

Wrapping It Up

Thanks for reading our post on Electronics Recycling. Hopefully you find theses resources helpful.

Finally , to learn more about Falconer Electronics, check out these helpful links below:

/0 Comments/by

Recycling: What & Why We Should Recycle?

Tackling Recycling

Why should you recycle? Does it really help the environment? What is recycling?

     Recycling is the process of collecting and processing materials that would otherwise be thrown away as trash and instead turning them into new products.

There are many different products that are part of the recycling family. Also, most products have recycling symbols on them. This is so everyone knows what goes in recycling bins.

Some symbols include the following:
Recycle Symbols

 

What Can You Recycle You May Ask?

Here is a list of the most common recycling materials:

  • Paper
    • 25 percent of solid waste generated each year
    • Americans also recycled almost 67 percent of the paper they used in 2015
  • Batteries
    • Dry-Cell Batteries are used in a variety of electronics.
    • The list includes:
      • alkaline and carbon zinc (9-volt, D, C, AA, AAA)
      • Mercuric-oxide (button, some cylindrical and rectangular)
      • Silver-oxide and zinc-air (button)
      • Lithium (9-volt, C, AA, coin, button, rechargeable) batteries.
  • Plastics
    • Almost 35 million tons of plastics were generated in the United States in 2015.
    • Only 9.1 percent of plastics was recycled in 2015.
  • Glass
    • Glass containers for food and beverage 
    • In 2015 11.5 million tons of glass were generated
    • Also, about 26 percent of which was recycling.
  • Used Oil
    •  It takes 42 gallons of crude oil, but only one gallon of used oil, to produce 2.5 quarts of new motor oil.
    • The used oil from one oil change can contaminate one million gallons of fresh water.
  • Household Hazardous Waste
    • Products such as paints, cleaners, oils, batteries, and pesticides that contain potentially hazardous ingredients require special care when you dispose of them.
    • These also may be dangerous to people or bad for the environment if poured down the drain, dumped on the ground, or thrown out with regular trash.
    • Finally, check with your local waste management agency to see what rules apply in your community.
  • Tires.
    • You may be able to return used tires to either a tire retailer or a local recycling facility that accepts tires.
    • Tire piles create an environmental danger especially with when a fire occurs. 

Recycle BenefitsRecycl

First of all, it reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills. Another benefit is that it conserves natural resources such as timber, water, and minerals. It also helps us saves energy. Another positive factor is that it supports American manufacturing and conserves valuable resources. Finally, it also helps create jobs in the recycling and manufacturing industries in the United States.

Check out this informative video to learn more:

To learn more about why you should recycle check out this page!

This is the first of our recycling series! Check back for next week for more on recycling!

Also, to keep up to date with all things Falconer Electronics, check out our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn pages!

 

/0 Comments/by

Influential Management Consultants from the 20th Century

Consultants Who Impacted Manufacturing

Manufacturers commonly rely on consultants to help advance their business strategies.

Let’s take a step back in time to look at several legendary business consultants.

Three prominent management consultants from the 20th century who left a lasting legacy include W. Edwards Deming, Peter Drucker and Tom Peters.

As a business logistics major in college during the 1990’s, these individuals appeared frequently as hot topics throughout business classes.

Each of these three consultants found international success with their influence as well as pioneering ideas on business management practices

In particular, each of these individuals left a significant impact on manufacturers. Even today, all three consultants continue to heavily influence decisions at our company.

W. Edwards Deming

W. Edwards Deming is considered by many to be the master of continual improvement of quality, as well as overall operation efficiency.

In June 1980, the acclaimed documentary “If Japan Can, Why Can’t We” reintroduced Dr. Deming to America. He quickly became the voice of quality and sparked the quality revolution.

Deming consulted with clients such as Ford, Xerox and Proctor & Gamble.

In particular, Deming played a major role in the resurgence of the American automobile industry in the late 1980’s. Below includes several of our favorite quotes from Deming:

  • “A Bad System Will Beat a Good Person Every Time”
  • “Two basic rules of life are: 1) Change is inevitable. 2) Everybody resists change.”
  • “Eighty-five percent of the reasons for failure are deficiencies in the systems and process rather than the employee. The role of management is to change the process rather than badgering individuals to do better.”

Peter Drucker

Consultants

Another consultant from the 20th century who left a lasting legacy includes Peter Drucker.

Peter Drucker, commonly referred to as the “father of management“, authored 39 books. Above all, he wrote 30 books AFTER the age of 60. That’s inspiration!

The impressive Drucker client list included a line up of corporate giants such as Sears, IBM, GM, GE, Intel, Coca-Cola, and Proctor & Gamble. 

Furthermore, Drucker delivered ground breaking views on motivation, efficiency and time management.

He is also credited with coining the term “knowledge worker“.

Check out this fantastic article about Peter Drucker from the Harvard Business Review: What Peter Drucker Knew About 2020.

Drucker’s books serve not only corporate warriors, but also entrepreneurs as well.

For example, his 1985 book “Innovation and Entrepreneurship” deserves the role as mandatory reading for every entrepreneur.

Below includes a list of the many incredible quotes from Peter Drucker:

  • “Doing the right thing is more important than doing the thing right.”
  • “If you want something new, you have to stop doing something old.”
  • “There is nothing quite so useless as doing with great efficiency something that should not be done at all.”
  • “Results are gained by exploiting opportunities, not by solving problems.”
  • “So much of what we call management consists of making it difficult for people to work.”
  • “Meetings are by definition a concession to a deficient organization. For one either meets or one works. One cannot do both at the same time.”

Tom Peters

Lastly, Tom Peters co-authored one of the greatest business books of all time, “In Search of Excellence: Lessons from America’s Best-Run Companies”. This book served as required reading for business majors in the 1990’s.

Tom Peters client list includes the Hersey Company, Rolls-Royce Aerospace, Texas Instruments and the U.S. Army.

Several excellent quotes from Tom Peters include:

Wrapping It Up

Finally, thanks for reading our post on 20th management consultants.

For additional information on Falconer Electronics, check out these other helpful blog posts:

/0 Comments/by

Inspiring Business Quotes Help Conquer Tough Times 

Being an entrepreneur requires a consistent positive attitude. You need your game face on at all times. Display constant determination. Maintain a laser focus. Especially during stressful periods and even when a bad day occurs. We all need to remain upbeat. Sometimes we just need words of wisdom like inspiring business quotes to put us back on track.
Inspiring Business Quotes

Inspiring Business Quotes Help Conquer Tough Times

Who doesn’t love quotes of inspiration and motivation?

For example:

Of course, one of the classic motivational speeches of all time comes from Bluto (John Belusi) in the 1978 movie “Animal House”.

Bluto: “What? Over? Did you say ‘over’? Nothing is over until we decide it is! Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? Hell no!… It ain’t over now, ’cause when the goin’ gets tough, (long pause)….the tough get goin’. Who’s with me? Let’s go! Come on!…”(He ran to the front door but no one followed him). If you grew up in the 70’s, this scene may bring a smile to your face.

Anyway, some great business quotes serve not only as an excellent source of inspiration but they also help put things in perspective during challenging times.

Serving as a U.S. manufacturer since 1985, we targeted our list of favorite business quotes from entrepreneurs who helped revolutionized their industries.

Henry FordBusiness Quotes

Henry Ford is a must for any list of favorite business quotes. In particular, Ford was known for his insightful one-liners. Henry Ford delivered a wealth of outstanding quotes:

  • “If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said ‘faster horses.”
  • “If you always do what you always did, you’ll always get what you’ve always got.”
  • “Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goals.”
  • “Quality means doing it right when no one is looking.”
  • “Chop your own wood and it will warm you twice.”
  • “Nothing is particularly hard if you divide it into small jobs.”
  • “Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”

Click Here for Inspiring Thomas Edison Quotes

Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs needs little introduction. Technology visionary. Computer pioneer. Inventor. Entrepreneur. Massive success. Co-founder of Apple. He also revolutionized the cartoon industry with Pixar. Steve Jobs died way too young in 2011. Below include a few favorites:

John D. RockefellerRockefeller

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you here the name Rockefeller? Most likely, money and wealth.

Click Here for Our Book Review on “Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr.”

John D. Rockefeller achieved great heights of unimaginable wealth. Rockefeller founded The Standard Oil Company in the 19th century.

Wrapping It Up 

Thank you for reading our post on Inspiring Business Quotes. Hopefully you found a quote or two insightful. Even applicable to your business.

What are some of your favorites?

For additional information on Falconer Electronics, check out these other helpful posts:

/0 Comments/by
Rockefeller

Book Review on “Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr.”

“Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr.”

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name, Rockefeller?

Money? Extreme wealth? Massive success? Monopolist? Philanthropist?

As you are most likely aware, John D. Rockefeller is commonly noted as the wealthiest individual in American history.

On a personal note, I proposed to my wife in front of Rockefeller Center at the Christmas tree (many years ago). Therefore, the name Rockefeller reminds me of not only a relentless entrepreneur but also the place where my family started.

Well, if you find yourself longing to learn more about John D. Rockefeller, you need to check out the amazing book, “Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr”, authored by award-winning Ron Chernow. This fantastic book offers insight into the remarkable life of John D. Rockefeller.

John D. Rockefeller certainly lived a fascinating life. From humble beginnings as a child, to monopolizing the oil industry, to becoming America’s richest business man, to being demonized by the press, and then finally becoming one of the one the most generous philanthropists in American history.

“As architect of the first great industrial trust, he proved the ultimately fragile nature of free markets, forcing the government to specify the rules that would ensure competition and fair play in the future. The fiercest robber baron had turned out to be the foremost philanthropist. Rockefeller accelerated the shift from the personal, ad hoc charity that had traditionally been the province of the rich to something both more powerful and more impersonal.”

Being a history fanatic as well as having numerous customers in the oil industry made “Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr” an extremely interesting read. Especially since being located within an hour of the original U.S. oil fields in northwestern Pennsylvania.

“Titan” Author Ron Chernow

At 832 pages (750 pages on Kindle Mobile), author Ron Chernow goes into extensive detail on the intriguing life of John D. Rockefeller.

Having also read Ron Chernow’s “House of Morgan”, the author presents well written biographies and paints a clear picture of his subjects.

For example, Chernow’s “House of Morgan” is considered a business classic. The book was awarded the 1990 National Book Award for Nonfiction and selected by the Modern Library as one of the 100 Best Nonfiction Books of the Twentieth Century.

In addition, while reading Chernow, make sure to keep your dictionary and thesaurus handy. His books present a strong reminder that I definitely need to work on expanding my vocabulary.

Chernow explicitly describes his characters where you actually feel like you know them. His exhaustive research goes deep in the personal lives of his topics.

While reading “Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr”, you actually feel like Rockefeller is speaking directly to you. You can actually imagine the tycoon sitting in front of a group of children at his church teaching a Sunday school class.

John D. Rockefeller in Upstate NY

Rockefeller was raised in an extremely unstable home in upstate New York. His birthplace, Richford N.Y.,  is located just a few hours east of our facility. Born on July 8, 1939 to William and Eliza Rockefeller.

According to the book, his father, William “Bill” Rockefeller was a philandering bigamist who also pretended to be a medicine man. Bill traveled constantly selling unsuspecting victims (“customers”) his potions (“medicine”) that would “heal” their ailments. He would leave his family for months at a time with no communication. Yet, he would then suddenly appear with a pocket full of cash.

Furthermore, Bill married a second wife while still married to Eliza and started another family. Bill’s charisma and handsome good looks allowed him to live his illustrious and scandalous lifestyle. Right up until his death in 1906.

Rockefeller: The Young Entrepreneur

The irony runs deep that John D. Rockefeller was the complete opposite of his father. For example, he served as a dedicated and loyal husband. Attended church religiously. He was also a loving father who provided a stable home. Finally he eventually became the wealthiest man in American History as well as one of the most generous.

The Rockefeller family moved to Cleveland where John D. Rockefeller started his business career as a teenager. By the age of 20, John D. was already a successful entrepreneur selling meat, grain and other dry goods.

“Thus, by the end of the Civil War, John D. Rockefeller had established the foundations of his personal and professional life and was set to capitalize on the extraordinary opportunities beckoning him in postwar America. From this point forward, there would be no zigzags or squandered energy, only a single-minded focus on objectives that would make him both the wonder and terror of American business.”

Rockefeller Enters the Oil Industry

Having incredible foresight, Rockefeller wisely made a career move into the oil industry during the Civil War. Those flourishing in the young oil industry at the time had no idea what was ahead. In particular, that an extremely ambitious entrepreneur in his early 20’s  new to the oil market would soon become a dominant force.

For his first array into the oil industry, Rockefeller pledged a $4,000 investment into a new venture:

 “…placing the twenty-four-year-old Rockefeller squarely in the oil business in 1863, the year of the Emancipation Proclamation and the stunning Union victories at Gettysburg and Vicksburg. Of the initial $4,000 investment, he said dryly, “It seemed very large to us, very large.” Scarcely dreaming that oil would ever supersede their main commodity business, they considered it “a little side issue, we retaining our interest in our business as produce commission merchants.” As a commission agent distant from the oil wells, stationed at the commercial crossroads of Cleveland, Rockefeller naturally entered the industry as a refiner. As a middleman, he belonged to a new breed of people in the emerging industrial economy who traded, refined, or distributed products in the widening chasm that separated raw-material producers in the countryside from their urban consumers.”

The Standard Oil Company

Eventually the vast profit potential that the oil industry offered led Rockefeller to leave his commission commodity business behind to exclusively pursue oil riches.

Rockefeller formed the Standard Oil Company in 1870.

You truly need to read the book to capture the entirety of Rockefeller’s business savvy during this period. Most of all, Rockefeller was an extremely sophisticated business man laser focused on profit as well as a fierce competitor.

Rockefeller saw huge waste throughout the oil industry. He loathed the instability. Prices severely fluctuating. Competitors selling below production costs attempting to capture market share. Unskilled business types ruining the market.

Rockefeller strove for efficiency, stability and profitability. He eventually founded the Standard Oil Company in 1870.

“During his career, Rockefeller cut the unit costs of refined oil almost in half, and he never deviated from this gospel of industrial efficiency.”

Rockefeller the Motivator

One point of particular interest in the book alludes to Rockefeller’s management and motivational skills. Chernow describes how one of the many strengths that Rockefeller possessed included the ability to motivate his executive staff:

“Few outsiders knew that one of Rockefeller’s greatest talents was to manage and motivate his diverse associates. As he said, “It is chiefly to my confidence in men and my ability to inspire their confidence in me that I owe my success in life.” He liked to note that Napoleon could not have succeeded without his marshals. Free of an autocratic temperament, Rockefeller was quick to delegate authority and presided lightly, genially, over his empire, exerting his will in unseen ways….”

Cleveland Massacre

Rockefeller’s dedication to efficiency and profitability eventually drove many competitors out of business. Rockefeller built a massive company with the Standard Oil Company. He also accumulated staggering wealth in the process.

For Example, Rockefeller swept in and started purchasing all of his competitors. He explained to them that they could either sell out or risk an unstable future. He offered them to take Standard Oil Company in stock and become wealthier beyond their imagination. Otherwise, they would suffer severely and eventually go out of business. Even bankrupt.

During a six week period in 1872, Rockefeller purchased 22 of 26 Cleveland competitors. Critics labeled this purchasing spree the “Cleveland Massacre”.

“…he could beneficently spare Standard Oil employees the plight of other industrial workers who “find themselves in each period of ten or fifteen years in destitute circumstances, with bankrupt employers, owing to the foolish and universal competitive methods accompanying the excessive production.”

Ida Tarbell

Impact on Pennsylvania Refineries

The “Cleveland Massacre” also heavily impacted the refineries of Pennsylvania, including teenage Ida Tarbell’s father who refused to sell the the “evil” and monopolistic Rockefeller. As a teenager, Tarbell witnessed firsthand the extreme damage to her community. Especially in her own home where hatred ran deep toward the Standard Oil Company. Ida Tarbell described the damage done to her father as he lost his sense of humor and became grim-faced. Frank’s business partner eventually killed himself over the financial ruin. This forced Frank to mortgage his home to cover company’s debts.

“Rockefeller paid them a pittance, typically a quarter of their original construction costs, or what the plants might have fetched if auctioned off for scrap; he paid little or nothing for goodwill—that is, the intangible value in a thriving business, such as its reputation or client list. If this was hard policy, it wasn’t necessarily unscrupulous. “No, the good will of a business which is losing money is not worth much,” said Rockefeller.”

Due to the overwhelming success and market domination that the Standard Oil company enjoyed, company executives served as a lightning rod of harsh criticism from the public as well as the press.

In particular, John D. was the prime target. He was accused of collusion, unfair business practices and creating a monopoly that wiped out any competitor that stood in his way.

Particularly in Northwestern Pennsylvania oil field communities such as Titusville, Oil City and Bradford.

“Rockefeller’s overwhelming influence on the oil industry stemmed from the conflict between his overmastering need for order and the turbulent, unruly nature of the infant industry. In the overheated memories of his enemies, Rockefeller became an omnipresent bogeyman who first appeared in the Oil Regions.”

Ida Tarbell the Social Journalist

As a little girl who spent her youth on the oil fields in Pennsylvania, she eventually grew up to despise John D. Rockefeller.

Ida Tarbell wrote a scathing series on Rockefeller than completely demonized his character and reputation.

As an investigative journalist for McClure’s Magazine, Tarbell conducted a 19 part series called “History of the Standard Oil Company” which also became a book.

The public became captivated by the extreme wealth generated during the Gilded Age of the late 19th century. No one better represented the accumulation of wealth than Rockefeller.

Tarbell exposed in great detail the secret deals, intimidation, collusive schemes and unregulated business activities conducted by the Standard Oil Company.

Though oil was drilled in northwestern Pennsylvania, the refineries were primarily located in Cleveland including Rockefeller’s Standard Oil Company.

In a quest to stabilize oil prices as well as railroad rates, Rockefeller and the railroads connecting the oil fields and the Cleveland refineries established a “rebate” program. This secret dealt a fatal blow to the oil producers around Titusville and Oil City. Including Ida Tarbell’s father.

Frank Tarbell was a producer and refiner of oil. Once the railroads announced exorbitant shipping rates, the small producers were placed in a severe price disadvantage. They would either no longer be price competitive and continue operations at a loss.

Trust Busted

The famous Standard Oil break up occurred on May 15, 1911. The Supreme court eventually forced the Standard Oil Company to dissolve due to cutthroat and monopolistic business practices.

Without going into great detail here in this review, the Standard Oil monopoly finally came to an end. Thanks to Ida Tarbell’s series of articles, President Teddy Roosevelt’s drive to bust the trusts during his presidency as well as the public fury towards Rockefeller, the Supreme Court finally ruled that Standard Oil needed to be broken up.

The irony? John D. Rockefeller’s wealth exploded after the break up. The three contributing factors?

First, Rockefeller ended up with a significant number of shares from each company that evolved out of the Standard Oil break up. Investors flocked to the individual companies driving up stock prices. Thus, driving up Rockefeller’s wealth as well.

Secondly, thanks to Henry Ford and other Detroit auto manufacturers, consumers purchased automobiles at a fast pace. Americans were now free to travel at will. Therefore the demand for gasoline also exploded.

Third, the Roaring 1920’s saw investors flocking to the stock market in unprecedented numbers. This also dramatically increased his investments.

Rockefeller’s estimated wealth reached nearly a billion dollars thanks to the Standard Oil split. Though one billion dollars today wouldn’t even land you on the Forbes 400 Richest List, this was CRAZY money at the time.

Companies that trace their roots to the Standard Oil Company?

  • Exxon
  • BP
  • Chevron
  • Marathon Oil
  • ConocoPhillips

John D. Rockefeller the Philanthropist

Many characteristics of John D. Rockefeller, Sr. that you may not be aware of include:

  • Devout Baptist
  • Sunday School teacher
  • Dedicated husband
  • Loving father
  • Wicked sense of humor
  • Became an avid golfer in his 60’s after retirement
  • Helped found and funded several top universities
  • Donated millions in medical research

With the same drive and relentlessness as an entrepreneur, Rockefeller donated hundreds of millions of dollars to colleges, universities and for medical research.

“John D. Rockefeller, Sr., had established himself as the greatest lay benefactor of medicine in history. Of the $530 million he gave away during his lifetime, $450 million went directly or indirectly into medicine. He had dealt a mortal blow to the primitive world of nineteenth-century medicine in which patent-medicine vendors such as Doc Rockefeller had flourished. He had also effected a revolution in philanthropy perhaps no less far-reaching than his business innovations. Before Rockefeller came along, rich benefactors had tended to promote pet institutions (symphony orchestras, art museums, or schools) or to bequeath buildings (hospitals, dormitories, orphanages) that bore their names and attested to their magnanimity. Rockefeller’s philanthropy was more oriented toward the creation of knowledge, and if it seemed more impersonal, it was also far more pervasive in its effect.”

Universities and Organizations Founded with Rockefeller Funds

Below includes a list of organizations that Rockefeller founded:

Wrapping It Up

Well we could go on and on about the life of John D. However, we know you need to get back to work to make your own fortune.

On that note, if you are looking for an excellent business book to help build your business, purchase a copy of “Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr.” Grab a highlighter or take notes.

Author Ron Chernow does an amazing job with this book. Especially for entrepreneurs. Read closely and follow the blueprints on how to dominate an industry. Great stuff!

For myself, hopefully after reading this book I now have a better chance of beating my 11 year old daughter in the board game Monopoly. In reality, probably not.

 

 

 

 

/0 Comments/by
Relatable Manufacturers That Could be Your Best Friend
,

Relatable Manufacturers: Movie Manufacturers that Could be Your Best Friend

As we continue our blog series on American Manufacturers in the Movies, today we discuss “Movie Manufacturers That Could Be Your Best Friend.” You know the type. Characters who are outrageously funny, lovable and a bit on the crazy side. Those individuals who bring energy, excitement and lots of laughter into your life.

We narrowed down our selection to three movies that particularly that fit the bill. In each case, the protagonist encounters many challenges along the way. Yet, they find a way to succeed in the end. Enjoy!

Movie Manufacturers That Could Be Your Best Friend

  • Tommy Boy

Tommy Callahan III (Callahan Auto)

Relatable Manufacturers That Could be Your Best Friend: Tommy Callahan III

The first of our favorite relatable manufacturers is Tommy Callahan III. Tommy is a slacker who works in his family business, an automotive component manufacturer. However, after his father passes away, right after remarrying, Tommy is left with a decision.

He has to choose to either fight for his father’s company or let a rival company take over and lose everything. Therefore, Tommy chooses to make a deal with the bank holding his assets. Tommy is forced to get creative with meeting the requested goals. Furthermore, Tommy has to battle with his new family members who are plotting against him and who are not who they claim to be.

  • Gung Ho

Hunt Stevenson (Assan Motors)

Relatable Manufacturers That Could be Your Best Friend: Hunt Stevenson

Another favorite relatable manufacturer is Hunt Stevenson. Hunt is facing a predicament that will affect his entire town. The automotive plant where most of the townspeople work has been closed for 9 months. The town is officially getting desperate. Therefore, Hunt feels like he has to do something. However, Hunt’s efforts don’t come without a price.

While the plant reopens there is a lot of sacrifices. New Japanese ownership brings cultural differences as well as many challenges. The workers that are brought back are forced to work longer hours for less pay. Also, they are asked to perform crazy exercises with their new Japanese coworkers. The American workers and their new coworkers and bosses do not see eye to eye on a lot of things. Also, due to the American workers’ lack of a work ethic, the new plant owners and Hunt try to make a deal.

If Hunt can convince the workers to meet the Japanese owners’ goal they will change how they run the plant. However, after the workers find out that Hunt lied to them they stage a walkout and all seems lost. Not only will the plant not survive without the workers coming back but neither will the town. With nothing else to lose Hunt goes back to work. To his surprise so do the rest of his coworkers.

  • Christmas Vacation

Clark Griswold ( A Chemical Company)

Relatable Manufacturers That Could be Your Best Friend: Clark Griswold

Clark Griswold is one of the most well-known relatable manufacturers on our list. He works for a chemical company that produces food coloring and additives (but not preservatives). As Christmas approaches Clark is preparing to celebrate with his family. However, after unexpected guests arrive and share their hardships with Clark he feels the need to help them out.

However, after the Griswold’s discover that Clark did not receive his yearly bonus all of his plans come to a crashing halt. He already put down money on a grand present for his family. Also, he helped his relatives with presents for their children. Therefore, Clark does not take the news of not receiving this extra money well.

Due to Clark’s determination to get his bonus he kidnaps his boss. However, he is unaware that his boss’s wife has called the police. Therefore, Clark has to explain his actions not only to his boss but to the police as well. Luckily, after explaining the situation, his boss grants him the bonus.

 

Connect With Us!

Check out our previous blogs on our Movie Manufacturers series!

You can read more of our blogs here!

To learn more about Falconer Electronics Inc. check out our page!

Also, you can learn more about our Wire Harness Manufacturing here!

Do you have a need for custom wire harnesses or Ground Straps for a project? We can help you! Check out our Wire Harness Estimator! You can also custom build Ground Straps Here!

Lastly, let’s get social! We would love to connect with you on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn.

/0 Comments/by
,

Accidental Manufacturers: Our Favorite Movie Heroes Who Weren’t Heroes

As we continue our blog series on American Manufacturers in the Movies, today we take a look at movie characters who became “Accidental Manufacturers”.

What do we mean by “Accidental Manufacturers”? Those who stumbled into manufacturing by accident. In some cases, they actually created accidents with their manufactured products. Read ahead and you will see what we mean.

We selected three classics that you are most likely quite familiar with. The clips below might even inspire you to go home tonight, fire up some popcorn and enjoy one of these movie adventures!

Accidental Manufacturers

  • Back to the Future Series

Doctor Emmett Brown (The Time-Traveling DeLorean)

Accidental Manufacturers: Doc Brown

The “Back to the Future” series is well-known for their use of the now famous DeLorean. However, the DeLorean is not just a car in these movies. It is a time-traveling machine that not only brings people to the future but also the past. Doc Brown is the brains behind the time-traveling DeLorean. Along with his trusty dog Einstein and their friend Marty they manage to do the impossible. They travel through time.

Doc Brown becomes one of the “accidental manufacturers” when he creates this time machine and then comes up with some unique ways to make it work. With the use of lightning and going the specific speed of 88 miles per hour, Doc, Marty, and Einstein are able to travel back in time to meet Marty’s parents. Before they were his parents of course. This is just the first movie in the series.

In the rest of the series, Marty and Doc take on other adventures. Traveling to the future and even further back in the past to the wild west. However, during each of these adventures, there are situations that they can’t control. Each of which changes their lives.

  • Forrest Gump

Benjamin Buford (Bubba) Blue and Forrest Gump (Bubba Gump Shrimp)

Accidental Manufacturers: Bubba Blue

Forrest Gump is the lovable well-meaning main character who not only narrates his story but lives each of the exciting adventures. However, he can’t do it all on his own. Much like any good movie, there is a strong friendship. Forrest befriends Bubba Blue and they eventually decide that they should go into business together.

Bubba loves shrimp and along with his best friend, he believes he will live his dream. However, before Bubba is able to make this dream a reality he is killed during The Vietnam War. Forrest knowing that he wants to carry out his friend’s dream starts the shrimping company in Bubba’s memory. Therefore, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is born and Forrest becomes one of our favorite “accidental manufacturers”.

  • Honey, I Shrunk the Kids

Wayne Szalinski’s (The Shrinking Ray)

Accidental Manufacturers: Wayne Szalinski

When every attempt goes wrong with his invention, the shrinking ray, Wayne Szalinski is on the verge of giving up. However, his children accidentally prove that his invention does work. They prove this by shrinking themselves and their neighbors. Furthermore, it takes some time for Wayne and his wife to realize that their children are not the size they should be.

After discovering what has happened to them, all of the children realize that they have to work together in order to not only become their normal sizes but to also survive. It is not easy being tiny specks in a busy world. Therefore the children have to avoid different types of obstacles ranging from escaping a deadly lawnmower to swimming in a cereal bowl. In the end, they are able to return to their normal heights and their families are reunited. However, this is just the first time that one of Wayne’s inventions cause mayhem. There are still many more adventures to come with the Szalinkski family in the rest of the series movies.

Connect With Us!

Check out our previous blogs on our Movie Manufacturers Series!

You can read more of our blogs here!

To learn more about Falconer Electronics Inc. check out our page!

Also, you can learn more about our Wire Harness Manufacturing here!

Do you have a need for custom wire harnesses or Ground Straps for a project? We can help you! Check out our Wire Harness Estimator! You can also custom build Ground Straps Here!

Lastly, let’s get social! We would love to connect with you on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn.

/0 Comments/by
Real-Life Manufacturers
,

Real-Life Manufacturers in the Movies: Our Favorites Who Made an Impact

Last week we kicked off our blog series on American Manufacturers in the Movies. We started our series by identifying movies featuring Millionaire Manufacturers (who are most likely billionaire manufacturers by now). These fictional characters created incredible wealth in manufacturing. This week we discuss three movies based on Real-Life Manufacturers who also found massive success in manufacturing.

Real-Life Manufacturers Who Made an Big Impact

The Founder

Ray Kroc (McDonald’s)

Real-life Manufacturers Who Made an Impact: Ray Kroc

McDonald’s is an international franchise giant. However, if you are a millennial like myself, you may not know the name, Ray Kroc. Ray Kroc is one of the Real-life Manufacturers who truly changed the American landscape.

Why did we select a restaurant franchise as a manufacturer? Glad you asked. Ray Kroc and the team at McDonald’s perfected the art of mass production of the hamburger.

Ray Kroc saw potential in a small California restaurant run by the McDonald brothers. He, in turn, took that potential and created something massive. The McDonald brothers had instituted an assembly line concept similar to that of Henry Ford with the Model T. By manufacturing something as small as hamburger, McDonald’s was able to create an incredible legacy.

While McDonald’s has expanded around the world there are some differences from the McDonald’s we all know. Other countries were leery at first of McDonald’s. In some countries, they have had to redesign certain foods that they are famous for. Particularly their hamburger. There are countries where eating beef is not acceptable. So, in order to prosper in those countries, McDonald’s had to replace that particular ingredient. By working with locals, they were able to come up with more acceptable replacements. Some of these replacements included vegetarian options with local spices along with a chicken version of the Big Mac we have in the USA.

However, there are things that did not change no matter the location. Along with the golden arches McDonald’s has created an image that even small children recognize. They have well-known mascots and the brand recognition that other companies wish they could achieve.

Jobs

Steve Jobs (Apple Inc.)

Real-life Manufacturers Who Made an Impact: Steve Jobs

What leadership is, is having a vision, being able to articulate that so that people around you can understand it, and getting a consensus on a common vision. – Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs had a vision for what he wanted Apple to become. Steve Jobs is one of the most well-known Real-life Manufacturers. Even since his passing the brand has stood strong. They have new developments and a following of customers who are deeply loyal to the Apple brand.

The greatest people are self-managing. They don’t need to be managed at all. What they need is a common vision, and that’s what leadership is.- Steve Jobs

With all of Steve Jobs’ hard work he never could’ve planned Apple‘s success to be what it is today. Much like many entrepreneur manufacturers, Jobs began with an idea. He then found a way to make it become reality. However, seeing what they have become it is hard to imagine that it all started in a basement. However, as the business grew so did his managing skills.

The Aviator

Howard Hughes Jr. (Hughes Aircraft Company)

Real-life Manufacturers Who Made an Impact: Howard Hughes

Howard Hughes was a manufacturer of aircrafts. He also piloted his own aircraft. However, Hughes’ beginning was in the film industry. His original dream was to make movies. However, Howard chose to follow in his father’s footsteps of being an inventor. Howard Hughes did not only create planes that broke speed records. He also created planes and helicopters for the military.

All of Hughes planes were impressive. However, one stood out from the rest. The Spruce Goose is still the largest plane to ever be built. Also, it was built using a surprising material, wood.

Hughes was well-known for pushing the limit. He broke many of his own speed records. Also, Hughes did what others viewed as impossible with his wooden plane. Along with all of his work with aviation he also opened the door to new explorations of space. While aviation was not Howard Hughes first choice of careers, he had many achievements. Especially with the otherwise impossible.

Connect With Us!

Keep a lookout for our continuation on our Movie Manufacturers series. The next blog will be on Accidental Manufacturers.

You can read our first instillation of this blog series here!

You can read more of our blogs here!

To learn more about Falconer Electronics Inc. check out our page!

Also, you can learn more about our Wire Harness Manufacturing here!

Do you have a need for custom wire harnesses or Ground Straps for a project? We can help you! Check out our Wire Harness Estimator! You can also custom build Ground Straps Here!

Lastly, let’s get social! We would love to connect with you on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn.

/0 Comments/by
Lovable Millionaire Manufacturers
,

Millionaire Manufacturers in the Movies: Our Favorite Lovable Movie Millionaires

Ever take note of the number of movies with characters in American Manufacturing? In particular, highly successful entrepreneurs. There are lots! Due to this interesting observation, we have compiled our favorite movies that include America Manufacturing. For this post, we discuss those lovable Millionaire Manufacturers who win over your heart.

Lovable Millionaire Manufacturers

Our team at Falconer Electronics works extremely hard during the work week. To blow off steam on weekends, we love catching up on movies. During a recent conversation on our favorite movies, the discussion led to the number of movies that include characters with careers in American Manufacturing. As a matter of fact, we thought of so many movies involving manufacturing, we decided to put together a blog series on the topic.

To kick off our “American Manufacturing in the Movies” blog series, below includes our selection of the Top 3 Movies with Millionaire Manufacturers (actually, probably billionaires):

**Spoiler Alert: Beware that there is a short synopsis of the movies within these descriptions. Therefore, if you have not watched them and intend to, you may encounter some spoiler material.**

  • Iron Man Series and The Avengers Series

Tony Stark (Stark Industries)

 Lovable Millionaire Manufacturers: Tony Stark

Tony Stark is one of the most well-known millionaire manufacturers. His main claim to fame is Iron Man. However, as CEO of Stark Industries, he is no a stranger to the spotlight. Before he was known as Iron Man, Tony was seen as the rich playboy who happened to be good at inventing things.

Most of his inventions were for defense contracts. However, Tony also took the time to manufacture an electronic personality named Jarvis. Jarvis quickly became Tony’s most important creation.  Not only does Jarvis have control of the Iron Man suit but he also has control of Tony’s other devices. Therefore, without Jarvis Tony would not be able to perform half of the tricks and rescues that he performs.

  • Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

Willy Wonka (Wonka Chocolate Factory)

Lovable Millionaire Manufacturers: Willy Wonka

The main character, Willy Wonka is the most well-known millionaire manufacturers of candy. His specialty, of course, is chocolate. However, he does have other favorites to choose from. He creates amazing candies like edible wallpaper and everlasting gobstoppers. Furthermore, these treats could only come from a strong imagination.

While touring the factory a group of children experience all of Wonka’s creations. However, not all of the children enjoy the tour. One girl becomes a blueberry due to her inability to follow instructions. Also, a boy becomes part of a television. Throughout the tour, you begin to see a pattern develop. The children who disobey or believe they deserve everything for themselves begin to disappear. Meanwhile, a young boy, Charlie, who was just happy to be a part of it all gets the ultimate gift in the end.

  • Richie Rich

Richard Rich Sr. (Rich Industries)

Lovable Millionaire Manufacturers: Richard Rich

A lesser thought of of the millionaire manufacturers is Richard Rich Sr. He runs a very successful company, including United Tool, an American Manufacturer. However, the story does not focus on Richard Rich Sr. but rather his son Richie. Richie is missing something very important. He has no friends other than his dog Dollar and the butler Cadbury. Therefore, Richie desperately wants to make friends with kids his own age.

Richie gets his wish for friends. However, he soon realizes that his life is not as simple as he likes to believe. Everyone knows that with success comes threats and Richie finds that out. Furthermore, while trying to protect his family and their business he gets to know who his real friends really are.

Connect With Us!

Keep a lookout for our continuation on our “American Manufacturing in the Movies” series. The next blog will be on Real Life Manufacturers who Made an Impact.

In addition, check out this link to learn about Wire Harness Manufacturing.

Also, do you have a need for custom Wire Harnesses or Ground Straps for a project? We can help you! Check out our Wire Harness Estimator! You can also custom build Ground Straps Here!

Lastly, let’s get social! We would love to connect with you on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn.

/0 Comments/by
,

American Made: Understanding “All or Virtually All”

Many small manufacturers in the U.S. struggle to determine if the product that they assemble, manufacture or produce truly qualifies for the labels “Made in USA” or “American Made”.

Made in USA, American Made

Complying with American Made Standards

The world is shrinking fast. Competition is fierce. In addition, the internet has escalated a true global economy. Every country fights rigorously for consumers to purchase their products.

Consumers commonly make buying decisions based on labels. An important label includes country of origin. For example, U.S. manufacturers proudly label their products with “American Made” or “Made in the USA”. “American Made” represents quality products and lends a strong selling point for the product.

Unfortunately, there is confusion behind the definition of “American Made”. As a result, manufacturers in the U.S. are eager to comply with the “American Made” or “Made in USA” standards. Especially, as long as the standard is consistent and well defined.

Yet, some companies are too eager to capitalize on the “American Made” logo that actually do not qualify. Therefore, an “American Made” standard helps prevent those companies from just throwing a sticker on any product. Specifically, those that do so while disregarding its true origin.

What Does “All or Virtually All” Mean?

A Google search for “Complying with Made in the USA” produces 854,000 results. Furthermore, the #1 ranking is a link to the Federal Trade Commission website. The article is titled: Complying with the Made in USA Standard. The page offers a link to a pdf that dates back to 1998. However, it is still relevant today. This pdf states:

Traditionally, the Commission has required that a product advertised as Made in USA be “all or virtually all” made in the U.S.

“All or virtually all” means that all significant parts and processing that go into the product must be of U.S origin. That is, the product should contain no — or at least negligible — foreign content.-Federal Trade Commission pdf

So what does “or at least negligible” actually mean?

Manufacturers may think that they are truly making American products with all domestic suppliers. However, certain parts or raw material may be imports from a foreign country. All unbeknownst to the manufacturer.

Even if you purchase raw materials, parts, and components from a domestic distributor, those products may have originated in another country.

Manufacturers have to be aware of all aspects of their products. However, this can be a difficult undertaking. When you purchase components from a vendor they will not always provide you with the origin of those pieces. This is especially true if there is a larger component that has hardware or other parts that form the component as a whole. This is the situation that California manufacturer Maglite found themselves in.

Manufacturer Responsibility

As an example, Maglite, a California lighting manufacturer made national news. They lost a lawsuit over false “Made in USA” claims. Maglite is committed to American manufacturing and an amazing American entrepreneurial success story (click for video from ABC News). However, the lawsuit boiled down to a microchip and a rubber seal. Both of which had origins overseas. Therefore, costing the owner thousands of dollars in legal defense. Meanwhile, they still lost their case.

Check out this clip from CNBC (click here).

Unfortunately, in this case, the responsibility fell on the manufacturer. Like many manufacturers, they felt they were playing by the rules but fell short according to the court of California. Also, ignorance is not a reliable excuse or defense. There are companies that find themselves in trouble even when intentions are honest and genuine.

The Best Intentions

Manufacturers may have the best intentions of purchasing domestic goods. However, these products are not always available. Specific countries, geographical regions, climates, and many other factors affect the production of certain products in those areas. You may have a product that you assemble in the U.S. Production of that same product could occur with raw components originating from various countries.

In many cases, it is just not cost-effective to produce certain products in the U.S. Basic economics says that supply and demand control a market. Price is typically a key ingredient. What if the production of a product isn’t at a price that a customer is willing to pay? It is going to be extremely challenging to create a product that will sell. It will also be hard to sustain a profitable company due to the lack of interest in your product. Well at this point you are thinking, thank you Captain Obvious.

How Can You Protect Your Business?

One of the main ways to protect your business from lawsuits like that Maglite experienced is to be aware of your sourced parts. Also, before claiming your product is “Made in America” be aware of the laws in your state.

Why would the state you’re in make a difference? Different states have different definitions of “American Made”. Unfortunately for Maglite, California has one of the strictest definitions in the country (click here). Other states, however, acknowledge that there needs to be some leeway when it comes to hardware.

In Maglite’s case the components they got in trouble for were not available in the United States at the time. Maglite had done searches for that product and came up empty handed. That is another issue that manufacturers need to be aware of. When a component is not available in the U.S. what do you do? Also, how can you still receive the “Made in America” Stamp?

What if You Can’t Find Your Components in The U.S.?

Unfortunately, there are not many options. Depending on the component you may be able to employ a local business to manufacture the part for you. If your business is lucky enough to have ties to another manufacturer that would be willing to help, you are then all set. There is also the possibility of you manufacturing the piece yourself. The plus side to this is you would know exactly where the piece came from.

However, what if this isn’t an option? This is a very real possibility. There may not be an option of creating your own part. Whether due to time constraints or available resources. In this situation, you will need to find another way.

What if the only option is to import that specific part like Maglite had to? This is when you need to be aware of your state’s specific laws on the matter. If you are lucky enough to be in a state that has wiggle room depending on the component you may be able to import what you need without penalty.

However, if you are in a state with strict laws (like Maglite) you may have no choice then leaving off the “Made in America” label.

According to an article in the Daily Bulletin, Maglite hopes for a federal bill on the “Made in America” standard. A federal bill would certainly level the playing field as well as clarify the definition.

How Do You Still Represent Your American Workforce?

Do not lose all hope in that situation! There are other labels that you can use that will still encourage customers to buy your product. Some of these labels include:

  • “Assembled in America”
  • “Contains –% American Product”
  • “Final Product Assembled in the USA”
  •  also “USA Factory Assembled”

Each of these labels still encourage loyal customers and patriotic sales. Customers will see one of these labels and know that they are purchasing a product from an American Factory. Furthermore, with these labels and others like them, you can represent your American workforce and still be in compliance with the law.

Connect with Us

To learn more about Falconer Electronics, you can check out information on our American Made Ground Straps and Wire Harnesses.

Also, click on these links to learn more about our Wire Harness Estimator and our new Ground Strap Express!

Lastly, please connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn.

 

 

/0 Comments/by
Custom-Commercial-Power-Strips
, , ,

Competitive Edge – Partnering with a U.S. Custom Electronics Manufacturer

Custom Electronics Manufacturer in the U.S. Since 1985

Falconer Electronics, Inc (FEI) has proudly served its community as a U.S. Custom Electronics Manufacturer since 1985. Our customers love the convenience and flexibility of working with a domestic manufacturer.

There are tremendous benefits gained when working with a domestic manufacturer. Especially since partnering with a U.S. Custom Electronics Manufacturer drastically reduces costs and lead time.

The three areas that FEI specializes in include:

  1. Wire Harness Assembly
  2. Commercial Outlet Strips
  3. Printed Circuit Boards

Benefits of Partnering with a Custom Electronics Manufacturer in the U.S.

Outsourcing your Wire Harnesses, Commercial Outlet Strips or Printed Circuit Boards to a U.S. Custom Electronics Manufacturer provides a list of competitive advantages for your company:

  • Time zone challenges do not exist – We get up super early and start our day at 6:00 am est.
  • Quick and easy communication where language barriers do not exist (except for our goofy accents).
  • Shipping charges are much cheaper.
  • QUICK turnaround time – we work fast!
  • Over 30 years of experience.
  • We lobby all of our tools, resources, and expertise to provide an outstanding customer experience.
  • “Made in the USA” is a symbol of pride and high quality. Hard working Americans at work producing incredible products.
  • Fast and convenient shipping options
  • Inventory management and control
  • Our purchasing power lowers your costs
  • Long-term relationship with vendors
  • Keeping our overhead costs as low as possible to pass savings on to our customers.  We are frugal! We consider ourselves part of your team and work relentlessly to keep prices down and dirty.
  • Accessibility – many of our customers visit our facility and we consider it a privilege to go on tour to visit our customers as well.
  • Supply chain efficiencies

Custom-Commercial-Power-Strips

Our experience, expertise, tools, knowledge, and resources become an extension of your business allowing you to do what you do best – Make your outstanding products and produce profits. One of the keys to the long-term success at FEI is our deep commitment to driving profits for our customers. The greater the ROI each customer enjoys from our products the better.

 

Thanks for reading our post and check out our Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, and Pinterest for more electronic info.

/0 Comments/by