Being Cautiously Optimistic Requires Advanced Technology Foresight

Over the past few months I've been asking manufacturers and industrial suppliers how business is going. The vast majority of those I spoke with recited almost identical scenarios; activity really bottomed out in April and May; however, June orders picked up and July and August got exceedingly better. In fact, some said that the sales activity in July and August will put them back on schedule for achieving this year's sales goals. Keeping in mind that this year's goals are a far cry from that of 2008 and 2007, this is still good news since it provides visible signs that the recession may be starting to recover.

The latest economic indicators substantiate what these manufacturers and industrial suppliers are saying.

Recent reports indicate U.S. factories began to expand in August for the first time in 19 months. According to The Institute for Supply Management, the New Orders Index increased to 64.9 in August, which is the highest level since December 2004. In addition, the Export Orders Index also climbed to 55.5, from 50.5.

While there is reason to believe that we've turned the corner, most manufacturers do not expect to see a quick rebound, but rather a gradual one that will continue to improve as consumer confidence gains momentum.

In the interim, their recommendation is to remain cautiously optimistic.

For manufacturers and suppliers that take this advice to heart, I urge you to attend the Manufacturing and Innovation Today Conference in Rochester, NY, on November 9 and 10, 2009. This special conference will enlighten manufacturers looking for innovative business solutions. In addition, it will provide the framework for ensuring a strong future by employing advanced technology.

The Manufacturing and Innovation Today Conference will feature a program that includes several keynote speakers. The opening keynote address will be given by Doug Woods, president of AMT - The Association For Manufacturing Technology and Brian Papke, president of Mazak Corp. Following the opening session there will be an opportunity to visit one of two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities - Magnus Precision Manufacturing Inc. or Parlec Inc. - located in the Rochester, NY, area.

On day two of the conference, attendees will have an opportunity to interface with technology experts on a variety of subjects that include designing machine tools to cut 5553 titanium, special workholding applications, new designs in titanium cutting tools, advanced EDM technology, exploring composite material, multisensor measuring systems, and much more.

In all, there will be 15 concurrent sessions throughout the day allowing attendees to select the topics important to their respective operations. All sessions are focused on ensuring a strong future with advanced technology.

For more information on the conference and to register, go to manufacturingandinnovation.com, or contact Maria Miller at mmiller@gie.net.

I hope to see you there.