On a recent plant managers conference call, I asked, "What do you systematically measure and report to a department?" Too many key managers believe they've "done their job" - if their company's work is - acceptable to their customers - and on-time re. delivery. I equate that to "Showing-up."

Finally, the Wide-Format industry is bonding with expanding their portfolio line of products by adding custom finishing and structural assembly! The professionals are here to help! Read more…

For years I’ve encouraged account executives and estimators to provide their customers with meaningful options on their letters of quote whether or not their customers requested it. A quote with surprising options can lead to customer discussions that put you in charge of winning that work.

Passion is what should ignite customers, owners, employees, vendors, and even suppliers. Do your customers announce you as a passionate provider because you are committed to providing exceptional quality and superior service? Here’s what passion is…

Employees leaving is more rampant in our industry than anyone cares to talk about, heck, it’s even referenced as, The Great Resignation! Employees are not leaving because they have better opportunities elsewhere…read more if you want to know why.

We are being reminded that "Freedom isn't Free." Most of us are unaware of the personal price most of our "Signers of the Declaration of Independence" paid. The price these men, their families, and many other men and women have paid for you and me to have the choices and freedoms we are allowed.

Most of us have experienced a printing project that exasperated every corner within the four walls of our facility. You may have even tagged it with a name that summarizes your internal feelings, A story of doing what it takes to elate the customer.

We must relearn to cooperate and compromise – and clarify the rules of a God-fearing society to solve our collective problems, or we are on our way to losing our democracy. It's not just about what I want. Inflation does not appear to be the total problem, though it certainly is a part of the problem that's being created.

Investing in new equipment and leading-edge technologies enables businesses to be more agile and responsive as customers' needs and wants change. But you must have been terrified (a.k.a., scared to death) to sign the paperwork. You did conduct your due diligence. Right?

Pay and benefits are important. But a "Positive Atmosphere" and "Genuine Goodwill" are impossible to fake or compensate with only pay. Do your homework, and don't just "play" with good suggestions and ideas; put them into action.