Can people and robots work side-by-side? It seems to be the hot topic lately. Fender Guitar’s Senior VP of Operations, Ed Magee and I talked about talent, technology and transition after the Manufacturing Summit. At Fender, skilled craftsmen and craftswomen are critically important. Yet, Fender also automates where it makes sense. Technology working hand-in-hand with your #1 asset, your people, can assist in improving the craftsmanship, as well as safety. Ed considers training and development to be a key to success.
We also talked about potential recessions and disruption. Certainly, in today’s Amazon-impacted environment with global volatility, there will be continued ebbs and tides to navigate. Ed mentioned the importance of creating community and flexibility. Invest in your employees during times of boom AND bust. Don’t be afraid of the cycle and keep the lessons in mind as you think through your business cycle, and you’ll future-proof your manufacturing operation. Maintain focus, don’t cut back on training and development when everyone else does and you’ll be likely to speed by the rest.
Watch our interview to learn more and gain a few insights. What are you doing to future-proof your manufacturing operation and related supply chain? What should you be doing? Ed and I concur. If you aren’t starting with your people, nothing else will matter.
No matter how high tech key clients go, the most successful and sustainable clients accompany high tech with high touch. You’ll gain some strategies for people in our Profit through People archives as well as with our new LMA-i, LMA-Intelligence series, Future-Proofing Your Manufacturing & Supply Chain. Contact us to discuss further.