Insights from "Manufacturing Czar", Al Frink

	Al Frink, Assistant Secretary of Commerce, met with us recently and shared excellent insights into the current state of manufacturing. Having been a highly successful manufacturer himself, he's now referred to as the Manufacturing Czar within the Bush Administration.   Below is his insight on how successful U.S. manufacturers should be prioritizing the time spent on their business.

Currently, the majority spend 80% of their time focused on the bottom line and 20% on top line growth. Frink feels that to remain competitive within today's changing marketplace, it should be the exact opposite - 80% top line, 20% bottom line.

Added Value (Top Line)

1. Strong Leadership / Management
2. Best in Class Sales and Marketing
3. Respected Brand Identity
4. Constant Creation of New Markets (Trade)
5. E-Business
6. Cutting-Edge Product Design / Innovation
7. Product Excellence
8. Superb Supply Chain / Distribution
9. Exceptional Customer Service
10. World Class Workforce

Lowering Structural Costs (Bottom Line)

1. Lean Efficient Manufacturing Infrastructure
2. Intelligent Integration Technology
3. High Productivity
4. Efficient Product Inventory Management
5. Logistics
6. Healthcare, Energy, Tort, Regs, Taxes, IP, & Education

For more information on the issues surrounding the competitiveness of American manufacturers and service industries, visit www.manufacturing.gov.

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Copyright © 2006 Barry Group, Inc.