Issue 2, 2020
Spring Cleaning in the Tool Room: Five Jobs to Do Now
by Bryan Whitaker, technical manager, iD Additives
The Time to Recruit is Now
by Dan Regovich, owner and operator, AJ Augur
The Importance of Training for Plastics Companies
by Andy Routsis, president, Routsis Training
Cautious Optimism is Overwhelmed by Economic Shock and Uncertainty
by Greg Alonso, principal, Plante Moran
Molding the Market: The Future of Medical Resins
by Brittany Willes, contributing writer, Plastics Business
CARES Act Provides Relief to Plastics Processors
by Michael J. Devereux II, CPA, CMP, Mueller Prost
The COVID-19 Effect: Preparing Your Business for a ‘New Normal’
by Laurie Harbour, president and CEO, Harbour Results
COVID-19: Business Policies and Best Practices
by Ashley Turrell, membership & analytics director, MAPP
What Will the Economic Aftermath Look Like?
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
Surviving an OSHA Inspection
Coordinated by Liz Stevens, contributing writer, Plastics Business
Not Your Typical Business Podcasts
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
Association News
Plastics Business
Issue 1, 2020
Nationally Funded Program Offers Assistance to Manufacturers
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
Molders are Looking Forward with 20/20 Vision of the Year Ahead
by Cynthia Kustush, contributing writer, Plastics Business
Using a Web-Based Document Control and Training Platform at Automation Plastics
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
Forecasts are Changing for Plastics Manufacturers in 2020
by Ashley Turrell, membership & analytics director, MAPP
Young Professionals Network Fills Leadership Gap
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
Workstation Innovation Results in Safer, More Efficient Organizations
by Liz Stevens, contributing writer, Plastics Business
Let the Good Times Roll – But, for How Long?
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
Sales Strategies: Strategic Planning for Greater Sales Success
by Brittany Willes, writer, Plastics Business
Sales Strategies: How to Balance Customer Satisfaction and the Bottom Line
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
Grab Customer Attention and Keep It
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
Association News
Plastics Business
Issue 4, 2019
SOLUTIONS: PCI Focuses on Culture through Ownership, Leadership Transitions
by Nancy Cates, contributing writer, Plastics Business
VIEW FROM 30: For the Sake of Clarity: Crescent Industries Updates Job Descriptions
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Businessproductivity
PRODUCTIVITY: Simple and Straight Forward: Four Low-Cost Improvement Ideas
by Ashley Turrell, membership & analytics director, MAPP
REVIEW: Annual Benchmarking Conference Bring the Industry to Indianapolis
Plastics Business
BENCHMARKING: Rising Compensation, Increased Turnover Rates and Slow Hiring for Plastics Companies
by Ashley Turrell, membership & analytics director, MAPP
PERSPECTIVES: Plastics Positively Impacts the World Daily
by Alex Hoffer, vice president of sales and operations, Hoffer Plastics Corporation
STRATEGIES: Recent Acquisition Relied on Relationships, Fit
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
ECONOMIC CORNER: Four Issues Likely to Define 2020
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
BOOKLIST: Let’s Win the Game
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
MANAGEMENT: The Five Myths of Business Strategy
by Rich Horwath, CEO, Strategic Thinking Institute
Association News
Plastics Business
Issue 3, 2019
PREVIEW: 2019 MAPP Benchmarking and Best Practices Conference
Plastics Business
OUTLOOK: Plastics Molders Ease Hiring Strain with Apprenticeships, Internships
by Nancy Cates, contributing editor, Plastics Business
STRATEGIES: Maximizing Value and Attracting the RIGHT Acquirer for Your Business
by Jonathan Soucy, president, MBS Advisors
INDUSTRY: EHS Summit Emphasizes Preparedness
Plastics Business
INDUSTRY: MAPP Honors Best Practices in Safety
Plastics Business
PRODUCTION: Training Challenge Ignites Competition
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
VIEW FROM 30: Vital Plastics’ Home-Based Assembly
by Liz Stevens, contributing writer, Plastics Business
FOCUS: Strategic Planning: Setting Your Business Up for Success
by Laurie Harbour, president and CEO, Harbour Results, Inc.
BENCHMARKING: What’s in a Machine Rate?
by Ashley Turrell, membership and analytics director, MAPP
ECOMONIC CORNER: Election Watch: It’s the Economy, Stupid
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
MARKETING: How Marketing Impacts Talent Recruitment
by Shelly Otenbaker, president, WayPoint Marketing Communications
MANAGEMENT: Sales Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast
by John Waid, founder, C-3 Corporate Culture Consulting
BOOKLIST: Excellence is a Habit
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
Association News
Plastics Business
Issue 2, 2019
INNOVATION: Collaborative Robot Cleans House at Metro Plastics
by Liz Stevens, contributing writer, Plastics Business
STRATEGIES: 5 Steps to Better Supply Agreements
by H. Alan Rothenbuecher, partner, Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff LLP
SOLUTIONS: KPI: The Need to Measure
by Michael J. Devereux II, CPA, CMP, partner, Mueller Prost
SOLUTIONS: Four Ways Plastics Providers Combine KPIs to Accelerate Growth
by Louis Columbus, principal, IQMS
OUTLOOK: Injection Molders Expand Business Through Proprietary Products
by Katy Ibsen, contributing writer, Plastics Business
VIEW FROM 30: SEA-LECT Teaches Entrepreneurs to Design for Plastics
by Liz Stevens, contributing writer, Plastics Business
INDUSTRY: 3D-Printed Fashion: Makers Push Boundaries
by Nancy Cates, contributing writer, Plastics Business
MANAGEMENT: 5 Reasons to Hire for Skill Over Experience
by John Carrozza, principal consultant, Riviera Advisors, Inc.
FOCUS: Workplace Implications for Marijuana Use
by Liz Stevens, contributing writer, Plastics Business
BENCHMARKING: Cost of Benefits Continues to Rise for Manufacturers
by Ashley Turrell, membership and analytics director, MAPP
ECONOMIC CORNER: Global Economy in a State of Flux (Again)
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
BOOKLIST: Find a Way to Be Better
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
Association News
Plastics Business
Issue 1, 2019
FOCUS: Strategic Steps to Maximize Business Value for Plastics Processors
by Joellen Sorenson, director, Stout
EDUCATION: Productive Partnerships: What Education and Industry Need to Prosper
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
STRATEGIES: Integrating In-Mold Decorating into Injection Molding Workflow
by John Berg, director of marketing, Sussex IM
SOLUTIONS: Intralox Builds a Winning Team
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
BENCHMARKING: Steady Not Stagnant: Strong Performance Continues in 2019
by Ashley Burleson, membership and analytics director, MAPP
OUTLOOK: Prepare for Supply Chain Pressures
by Liz Stevens, contributing writer, Plastics Business
VIEW FROM 30: Communicating Ideas for Improvement at Thogus
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
ACTIVISM: Advocacy for Plastics in Legislation
by Liz Stevens, contributing writer, Plastics Business
ECONOMIC CORNER: Plastics Industry Swings from Free Trade to No Trade
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
INDUSTRY: Five Manufacturing Trends to Watch in 2019
by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers
MARKETING: Six Suggestions to Improve Social Media Marketing Efforts for B2B Businesses
by Brenda Eubank, Team 1 Plastics
BOOKLIST: Inspiration from the Sports World
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
Issue 4, 2018
FOCUS: Going All In on Manufacturing Day at Crescent Industries
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
VIEW FROM 30: Reducing Scrap at Plastech Corporation
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
SOLUTIONS: Learning from the Best: Building a Better Training Program
by Elizabeth Stevens, contributing writer, Plastics Business
STRATEGIES: Quote, Price and Close Work Orders the Right Way
by Nick Knight, Senior Director of Customer Services, Global Shop Solutions
TECHNOLOGY: Increase Profits and Opportunities for Growth with Data-Driven Process Cooling
by Al Fosco, Marketing Manager, Frigel North America
TRAINING ROOM: How to Become a Plastics Guru: What You Need to Know
by Jeremy Williams, Trainer/Consultant, RJG, Inc.
REVIEW: MAPP’s 2018 Benchmarking and Best Practices Conference
Plastics Business
ECONOMIC CORNER: If You Can’t Convince Them, Confuse Them
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
BENCHMARKING: Plastics Processors Continue to Boost Compensation for Workers
by Ashley (Turrell) Burleson, membership and analytics manager, MAPP
OUTLOOK: Year-End Tax Planning Opportunities
by Michael J. Devereux II, CPA, CMP, Mueller Prost
BOOKLIST: Productivity and Prioritization
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
Issue 3, 2018
STRATEGIES: How Digital Strategies are Driving Plastics Manufacturers’ Growth
by Louis Columbus, principal, IQMS
STRATEGIES: Data-Driven Decision Making with Process Quantity Analysis
by Scott Walton and Patrick White, Harbour Results
OUTLOOK: Resin Supply Chain Issues: Suppliers Offer Perspective, Solutions
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
SAFETY: Health and Safety in the Plastics Industry: Processors in the Spotlight with Best Practices
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
ECONOMIC CORNER: Hello Darkness, My Old Friend
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
TECHNOLOGY: Foaming Agents: Impact on Production Efficiency of Custom Closures
by Mike Uhrain, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag, and Nick Sotos, iD Additives
BENCHMARKING: Industry Trends in Mold and Machine Maintenance
by Ashley Burleson, membership and analytics manager, MAPP
FOCUS: Brand Protection for Plastics Molders: New Strategies for Anti-Counterfeit Security
by Scott R. Sabreen, president, The Sabreen Group, Inc.
FOCUS: IMD/IML: Common Performance Considerations and Test Methods
by Dave Schoofs, product development, Central Decal Company
MANAGEMENT: If You Don’t Know How to Onboard New Employees, You’re Not Alone
by Pam Butterfield, Business Success Tools
SOLUTIONS: Hearing Conservation in the Plastics Industry
by Katy Ibsen, contributing writer, Plastics Business
VIEW FROM 30: Anderson Technologies Offers Success Coaching to Its Employees
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
BOOKLIST: Creating Successful Cultures
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
Issue 2, 2018
PROFILE: Opportunities After Acquisition at Met2Plastic
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
BENCHMARKING: Manufacturers Address Drugs in the Workplace
by Ashley Burleson, membership and engagement manager, MAPP
ECONOMIC CORNER: The Economist’s View: Steel Tariffs – Good, Bad, Both?
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
OUTLOOK: US Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum Imports: Action Items for Businesses
by Dave Andrea, Daron Gifford and Bryan Welsh, Plante Moran
VIEW FROM 30 FEET: Implementing Cobots: Working Collaboratively with Robots at Wisconsin Plastics
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
MARKETING: LinkedIn Marketing for Plastics Businesses
by Kyle Milan, CEO, 5 Fold Agency
STRATEGIES: Email Marketing for Molders
by Katy Ibsen, contributing writer, Plastics Business
FOCUS: How to Prepare for the Next Downturn
by Dr. Andreas Reger, researcher
MANAGEMENT: This Year I Hope to (Insert Answer Here)
by Jeff Bush, author
BOOKLIST: Goal Setting and Follow Through
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
Issue 1, 2018
PRODUCTION: OEE Leads to SMART Solutions at PMC
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
PREVIEW: NPE2018 Brings the Latest Technology to Orlando
by Plastics Business
OUTLOOK: Five Industry Trends Affecting Plastics Processors
by Jay Smith, senior manager, and Scott Walton, COO, Harbour Results, Inc.
BENCHMARKING: First Quarter Gaining Momentum: 2018 Plastics Industry Outlook
by Ashley Turrell Burleson, membership and engagement manager, MAPP
FOCUS: Collaboration Builds Business Relationships: ISO 13485 Standards Adoption
by Nancy Cates, contributing writer, Plastics Business
INNOVATION: The Path to Zero: Intertech Medical Develops Automated Work Cell
by Brittany Willes, contributing writer, Plastics Business
PROFILE: Focusing on the Future: Empire Precision Looks to Optics Manufacturing
by Brittany Willes, contributing writer, Plastics Business
STRATEGIES: Best Practices in Mold Disposal: A Legal Viewpoint
by H. Alan Rothenbuecher, Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff, LLP
VIEW FROM 30 FEET: Fan Filters Reduce Dust at Toyota Material Handling
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
VIEW FROM 30 FEET: Ransomware Attacks Kentucky’s Par 4 Plastics
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
INDUSTRY: Tax Reform Implications for the Plastics Sector
by Michael J. Devereux II, CPA, CMP, partner, Mueller Prost
ECONOMIC CORNER: The Good, Bad and Maybe Ugly Sides of the Tax Cut
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
MANAGEMENT: Ten High-Impact, Low-Cost Ways to Drive Higher Levels of Employee Engagement
by Curt Redden, Primal Success
BOOKLIST: A Nonfiction Brain Break
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
Fall 2017
OUTLOOK: Processors Predict Sustained Growth in 2018
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
TRAINING ROOM: Four Strategies for Optimizing Production Scheduling in Real Time
by Ed Potoczak, director of industry relations, IQMS
CONFERENCE: MAPP’s 2017 Benchmarking and Best Practices Conference
STRATEGIES: Strategic Alternatives Through an Owner’s Eyes: Ownership Transitions
by Joellen Sorenson, director, Stout
BOOKLIST: Podcasts for Leaders
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
MANAGEMENT: Maintaining Business Stability Amid Political Turbulence
ECONOMIC CORNER: Hurricanes Storm In with Lasting Impact on the Plastics Industry
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
FOCUS: From Melting to Molding – Analytical Techniques to Support Process Optimization and Quality Control in the Injection Molding Industry
by Mettler Toledo
PRODUCTION: 4DX Strategy Pushes Ideas to Goal Execution at GreenLeaf Industries
by Nancy Cates, contributing writer, Plastics Business
INDUSTRY: Manufacturing Day: Enhancing the Industry’s Image
by Lara Copeland, contributing writer, Plastics Business
INDUSTRY: MAPP Award Honors Outreach Efforts
BENCHMARKING: As Labor Pool Shrinks, Compensation Rises
by Ashley Burleson, membership and engagement manager, MAPP
Summer 2017
VIEW FROM 30 FEET: Established Procedures Stop Fraud Attempt at Plastikos
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
VIEW FROM 30 FEET: Look Who’s Talking: Advancing Employee Communication with Falcon Plastics
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
INDUSTRY: Moving on Over: Manufacturing in China Helps Grow US Operations
by Brittany Willes, contributing writer, Plastics Business
BENCHMARKING: Changing Landscape of Sales Management in the Plastics Industry
by Ashley Burleson, membership and engagement manager, MAPP
SOLUTIONS: Part Design Considerations for Manufacturability Optimization
by Drew Rosek, TZERO CAE specialist, RJG, Inc.
FOCUS: Successful Automation Implementation
by Dino Caparco, engineering operations manager, Yushin America, Inc.
ECONOMY: How is the Economy Doing? It Depends on Which One
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
STRATEGIES: Understanding the Flow of Inventory Management
by Grainger Editorial Staff
MANAGEMENT: Building Loyal Relationships in a Disloyal World
by Richard Farrell, president, Tangent Knowledge Systems
BOOKLIST: Motivational Leadership
by Plastics Business
Spring 2017
TRAINING ROOM: Building a Successful Material Handling System
by Doug Brewster, conveying product manager, Conair
VIEW FROM 30 FEET: Shedding Light on Mid-Process Quality Control
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
SOLUTIONS: 3D-Printed Plastics Parts: To Weld or Not to Weld?
by Trevor Larcheveque, Branson Ultrasonics Corp.
MANAGEMENT: Three Questions That Capture Your Customer’s Attention
by Stu Schlackman, author and sales expert
INDUSTRY: Challenges in Plastics Industry Education
by Nancy Cates, contributing writer, Plastics Business
STRATEGIES: Managing the Supply Chain Squeeze
by Laurie Harbour, Harbour Results, Inc.
ASSOCIATION: MAPP Reaches 20-Year Milestone
Plastics Business
FOCUS: Q&A: Developments in Plastics Decoration
by Paul Uglum, technology advocate, fabrication engineering, Delphi
MATERIALS: Liquid Color for Plastics: Friend or Foe?
by Nick Sotos, iD Additives, Inc.
ECONOMY: Outlook: Shifting from Populism to Pragmatism
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
BOOKLIST: Strategic Planning
Plastics Business
Winter 2017
SOLUTIONS: Material Development for 3D Printing
by Brittany Willes, contributing editor, Plastics Business
SOLUTIONS: 3D Printing Takes on a New Shape
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
TRAINING: Preventing Unscheduled Mold Stops
by Steve Johnson, operations manager, ToolingDocs
ECONOMY: A First Economic Look at the Trump Administration
by Chris Kuehl, managing director, Armada Corporate Intelligence
INDUSTRY: 2017 Plastics Industry Outlook: Optimistic and Automated
by Ashley Turrell Burleson, operations support specialist, MAPP, Inc.
MANAGEMENT: 21st Century Leadership Intelligence
by Magi Graziano, CEO, Conscious Hiring® and Development
MARKETING: Augmented Reality: Catch Customers, Not Pokemon
by Linda Mallwitz, marketing director, Vive
ASSOCIATION: Association News
by Plastics Business
STRATEGIES: Applying the Internet of Things and Industry 4.0 in the Plastics Sector
by Steve Bieszczat, chief marketing officer, IQMS
FOCUS: People are Not Plastic: Four Challenges Facing the Industry
by Darryl Warren, president, D. Gene Alliance
VIEW FROM 30: Focus on Lead Times: Using QRM to Get Ahead
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
BOOKLIST: Booklist: Telling Your Story
by Plastics Business
Fall 2016
PROFILE: Consistent Processes Lead to Consistent Results at Revere Plastics
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
OPERATIONS: Unexpected Confusion: OSHA’s Proposed Lockout/Tagout Standard Changes
by Phil N. Molé, MPH, VelocityEHS
STRATEGIES: Take Steps to Prevent Workplace Violence
by Van Harp, partner, Harp & Associates, LLC
VIEW FROM 30 FEET: Maximizing Mold Changeover Efficiency at Dorel Juvenile Products
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
INDUSTRY: Election Results Create Path for Tax Changes
by Michael J. Devereux II, CPA, CMP, partner, Mueller Prost
REVIEW: MAPP’s Annual Benchmarking & Best Practices Conference: Perseverance, The Secret of All Successby Plastics Business
SOLUTIONS: Bemis Manufacturing Wins Inaugural Educational Outreach Contest
by Plastics Business
MANAGEMENT: Using a B.O.L.D. Approach to Succeed in an Unpredictable Business World
by Jill Johnson, president, Johnson Consulting Services
TRAINING ROOM: Advanced Injection Molding Simulation of Fiber-Filled Materials
by Matt Proske, vice president, SIGMA Plastic Services, Inc.
BOOKLIST: Event Speakers Make Recommendations
Summer 2016
STRATEGIES: Don’t Forget About State Income Tax Incentives
by Michael J. Devereux, CPA, CMP, partner, Mueller Prost PC
INDUSTRY: OSHA Update: Penalties and Drug Testing
by Joseph N. Gross, Esq., partner, Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff LLP
MAINTENANCE: Minimizing Dust and Fines in Granulation and Conveying
by Doug Brewster, product manager-conveying, and Vincent Carpentieri, product manager-size reduction, Conair Group
THE VIEW FROM 30 FEET: Collaboration Strategies for Tool Launches
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
THE VIEW FROM 30 FEET: A Multi-Tiered RFQ Process
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
MANAGEMENT: Is Your Company the Next Blockbuster?
by Steve Blue, president and CEO, Miller Ingenuity
TRAINING ROOM: 4 Variables, 7 Questions: How to Determine What Changed in Your Process
by Chris Nomura, consultant/trainer, RJG, Inc.
BOOKLIST: Creating the Customer Experience
Plastics Business
Spring 2016
FOCUS: Racing to Production with 3D-Printed Insert Tooling
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
OUTLOOK: Eyeing New Opportunities in Cuba
THE VIEW FROM 30 FEET: Game Training: Engaging Employees at Poly-Cast
by Brittany Willes, contributing editor, Plastics Business
THE VIEW FROM 30 FEET: Retooling Attendance, Communication and Morale at PRD
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Business
TRAINING ROOM: The Scientific Molding Plant: How to Get There from Here
by Donald C. Paulson, founder and owner, Paulson Training Programs
STRATEGIES: Don’t End Up with Drones and Clones: How to Really Invest in Your Staff and Future
by Dennis Gros, founder and president, Gros Executive Recruiters
MARKETING: Better Marketing with Video
by Todd Schuett, owner, Creative Technology Corp.
SOLUTIONS: Impact of Material Specification on Operational Efficiency
by Stacy Shelly, regional commercial director, Midwest, AMCO Polymers
BOOKLIST: Tackling Competition in a Global Market
Selections offered by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
MANAGEMENT: Generating Excitement in a Boring Economy
by Robert Fry, Robert Fry Economics LLC
Winter 2016
FOCUS: Plastics Business Celebrates 10th Anniversary
by Plastics Business
INDUSTRY: Strong and Steady: 2016 MAPP Business Forecast
by MAPP
UPDATE: OSHA’s New Scrutiny on Plastics Companies
by Robert Levandoski, CSP, CIH, president, Fuss & O’Neill Manufacturing Solutions
VIEW FROM 30:Visual Management for Safety in Manufacturing
by Brittany Willes, contributing editor, Plastics Business
VIEW FROM 30: Scholarships Relieve Financial Burden, Encourage Plastics Industry Careers
by Brittany Willes, contributing editor, Plastics Business
OUTLOOK: Tax Legislation Update for Plastics Processors
by Michael J. Devereux II, CPA, CMP, partner and director of plastics industry services, Mueller Prost
STRATEGIES: Common Pricing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
by Amy Fulford, enlight
SOLUTIONS: Utilizing Personality Tools to Find the Right Employees
by Dianna Brodine, managing editor, Plastics Business
BOOKLIST: Must-Read Books on Employee Motivation
by Plastics Business
MANAGEMENT: Change: Less Management, More Leadership, Better Results
by Randy Pennington, principal, Pennington Group
Association News
by MAPP
Fall 2015
SOLUTIONS: The Culture Shift of the Morning Meeting
by Brittany Willes
FOCUS: Investing in the Tool Room
by Dianna Brodine
REVIEW: MAPP’s Annual Benchmarking & Best Practices Conference: The Power of Influence
by Plastics Business
INDUSTRY: Reducing the Risks of Combustible Dust
provided by Grainger
VIEW FROM 30 FEET: American Export Expertise Leads to Presidential Award
by Brittany Willes
VIEW FROM 30 FEET: Molding Millennials: PMC and the Next Generation of Plastics Manufacturers
by Brittany Willes
PRODUCTION: Five Factors to Consider When Adding Robotics
by Jason Holbrook, Krauss Maffei Corporation
PRODUCTION: Robotics ROI: The Bottom Line on Automation
by Ronald K. Bryant, Yushin America
BOOKLIST: Business Books with a Lasting Influence
by Dianna Brodine
STRATEGIES: Year-End Tax Planning for Plastics Processors
by Michael J. Devereux II, CPA, CMP, Mueller Prost
Association News
by MAPP
Summer 2015
PROFILE: More than Molding: OCTEX Aims for Magic
by Dianna Brodine
INDUSTRY: An M&A Market Update for the Plastics Industry
by David Evatz, SRR
MANAGEMENT: Four Insidious Impacts of a Mis-Hire
by Magi Graziano, Conscious Hiring® and Development
PRODUCTION: Monitoring Manufacturing Efficiency with Advanced Auxiliary Equipment
by Dianna Brodine
ASSOCIATION: Association News
by MAPP
VIEW FROM 30 FEET: Casual Fridays Include Fewer Emails at Ice Miller; Taking Tool Return Documentation to the Next Level at Metro Plastics Technologies; Getting on Board with Shift Changes at Crescent Industries
by Brittany Willes
BOOKLIST: Four of the Top Business Books of 2015
by Dianna Brodine
SOLUTIONS: Evaluating Plant Expansion Needs
by Scott Walton, Harbour Results Inc.
FOCUS: Ensuring Product Purity in Plastic Recycling
by Dan Suderman, Bunting Magnetics Co.
STRATEGIES: Benefits that Attract and Retain Employees
by Dan Regovich, AJ Auger Group LLC
Spring 2015
Profile: Quality Mindset at Crescent Industries
by Dianna Brodine
View from 30 Feet: Offering Employee Relocation Expenses
by Brittany Willes
View from 30 Feet: Embracing 2 Second Lean
by Brittany Willes
Production: In-Mold Decorating Project Success: More than Technology
by Dave Schoofs, Central Decal Company
Industry: Lawsuits a Wake-Up Call on Proper Use of Background Checks
by Wayne “Skip” Adams III, Ice Miller, LLP
Solutions: Effective Inventory Management Adds to the Bottom Line
by Dianna Brodine
Outlook: Engaging in 5S
by Jen Clark
Focus: Structuring Sales and Customer Service Teams
by Jen Clark
Management: Nurturing the Work Environment
by Scott Hunter, Unshackled Leadership
Winter 2015
Profile: Automotive Insert Molding Drives Growth at Microplastics, Inc.
by Dianna Brodine
Preview: Make It Count at NPE2015
by Plastics Business
Industry: MAPP Survey Reports on 2015 Business Forecast
by Plastics Business
FOCUS: Change and Opportunity: Focus on Four Areas to Improve
by Laurie Harbour, Harbour Results, Inc.
The View from 30 Feet: Philosophy of Facility Size
by Dianna Brodine
The View from 30 Feet: Finding a Business Mentor
by Jen Clark
The View from 30 Feet: Using Video Mail for Customer Connections
by Brittany Willes
Production: Close the Loop: Take Control of Water Efficiency
by Al Fosco, Frigel North America
Outlook: Mobile Emissions and Fuel Economy Rev Up Lightweighting Initiatives
by Suzanne Cole, Miller Cole LLC
Solutions: Designing the Perfect SMED Cart
by Dianna Brodine
Association Development Provides Entrepreneurial Master Class
by Dianna Brodine
Association: Association News
by MAPP, Inc.
Fall 2014
Profile: Employee-Focused, Employee-Owned at Hansen Plastics
by Dianna Brodine
Strategies: Elements of a Successful Training Program
by Melissa DeDonder
Production: Creating Ready-To-Go Molds
by Gary Chastain, RJG, Inc.
Review: Leadership Unleashed
by Plastics Business
Solutions: Planning for a Healthy Workforce
by Jen Clark
Focus: New Repair Regs Impact Property and Equipment Owners
by Teri M. Samples and Michael J. Devereux II, Mueller Prost
The View from 30 Feet: Patent Infringement
by Jen Clark
Industry: ICE Audits ‘Skyrocket’ with Form I-9 Violations on the Rise
by Jen Clark
Association News
by MAPP, Inc.
Summer 2014
Profile: Bhar, Inc.: Driving its Own Recovery
by Dianna Brodine
Solutions: Plastics Bonding Design Considerations for Processors
by Andrew Scott, Henkel Corporation
Strategies: Sales Management: Growing with an Eye on “Fit”
by Dianna Brodine
Strategies: Goal Setting Tactics
by Jack Daly
Industry: Trends in Compensation and Operational Practices for Plastic Processors
by Troy Nix, MAPP, Inc.
The View from 30 Feet: Lockout/Tagout Procedures
by Jen Clark
Focus: Why Veterans are Ideal for Manufacturing Careers
by Rodrigo Garcia, Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs
MAPP Benchmarking and Best Practices Conference
by MAPP, Inc.
Association News
by MAPP, Inc.
Spring 2014
Profile: PTA Plastics: A Leading-Edge Product Laboratory
by Dianna Brodine
Strategy: OSHA Inspections: A Planning and Survival Guide
by Felix C. “Pete” Wade
Solutions: Maintenance 2015: Is Google Glass the Future?
by Jeffrey Dutschke
Industry: Could You be Uninsured, Underinsured – or Both?
by Mitchell Gorham
Focus: Flight Delay in Vegas
by Dianna Brodine
The View From 30 Feet: Cyber Fraud
by Jen Clark
Outlook: 3D Printing Changes the Production and Tool Build Models
by Plastics Business
Winter 2014
Profile: Fearless Manufacturing at Noble Plastics
by Dianna Brodine
Focus: Challenges for the Tooling Industry will Impact Processors
by Laurie Harbour, Harbour Results
Strategies: Benefits and Burdens of the Domestic Production Activities Deduction
by Michael J. Devereux II, CPA, Mueller Prost PC
Outlook: After Gridlock, Plastics Industry Looks to Federal Policy Modernization and Cutting Red Tape
by William Carteaux, SPI
Solutions: Why ERP Systems Fail to Perform
by Glenn Nowak, IQMS
Trends: MAPP Business Forecast Survey Shows Strong 12-Month Outlook
by Troy Nix, MAPP
Production: The View from 30 Feet: State of Alabama Recruits Manufacturing
by Jen Clark
Industry: Study Reveals Favorable Trends Impacting North American Processors
by Ted Morgan, Plante Moran
MAPP Association News
by MAPP
Fall 2013
Profile: Rapid Growth, Rapid Change at Xten Industries
by Dianna Brodine
Review: Conference: Did You PUSH PLAY?
by Plastics Business
Focus: Robotics in Plastics Processing
by Chris Parrillo
Focus: The Truth About Robotics: Impact of Robotics on Employment
excerpt from a white paper by Seegrid
Solutions: Cleanroom Considerations
by Ron Kosmalski
Strategies: Marketing: The New Frontier
by Dianna Brodine
Production: The View from 30 Feet: Business Networking on LinkedIn
by Matt Hlavin
Management: In-Mold Label Market Study Assesses Industry
by Plastics Business
Association: MAPP Association News
by MAPP
Summer 2013
Profile: An American-Made Story at Intertech Plastics
by Dianna Brodine
Trends: Bringing STEM to Local Schools
by Dianna Brodine
Trends: Advancing the STEM Agenda
by Plastics Business
Solutions: Simple Solutions with Auxiliary Equipment Solve Problems and Increase Productivity
by Doug Brewster, The Conair Group
Industry: Wage Survey Results Released for Plastics Processing Industry
by Marcella Kates, MAPP, Inc.
Strategies: Improving Machine and Process Efficiencies with Chemical Purge Compounds
by Tony Schoendorff, Chem-Trend L.P.
Production: The View from 30 Feet: Creating Accountable Teams
by Plastics Business
Management: The Real Truth about Safety: Creating a Culture of Buy-In
by Garrison Wynn, CSP
Association: MAPP Association News
Spring 2013
Profile: A Complete Circle at KW Container
by Dianna Brodine
Solutions: Mold Filling Simulation … Under Pressure
by John Ralston, Beaumont Technologies, Inc.
Trends: The Guiding Principles of Healthcare Reform
by Plante Moran
Industry: Intellectual Property Awareness Vital to Success in 3D Printing
by Roger A. Gilcrest, Ice Miller LLP
Production: The View from 30 Feet: Reducing the Maintenance Burden on Technicians at Blow Molded Specialties
by Plastics Business
Strategies: Medical Molding Benefits from Revalidation of Injection Molding Processes Using Universal Set-up Data
by Bob Reese, RJG, Inc.
Management: The Top 10 Plastics Training Mistakes
by Craig Paulson, Paulson Training Programs
Management: Blended Learning: The Best of Both Worlds for Busy Professionals
by Chuck Zona, Hooke College of Applied Sciences
Marketing: Get Involved in Your Community
by Dianna Brodine
Winter 2013
Profile: Falcon Plastics: Customer-Driven Growth Guides Expansion, Profitability
by Dianna Brodine
Solutions: Mold Cleaning Technologies Save Time, Money and Aggravation
by Steve Johnson, ToolingDocs
Trends: Material Trends to Watch
by Adam J. Wozniak, AMCO Polymers LLC
Strategies: Cliff Notes and Other Tax Changes
by Michael J. Devereux II and Adam J. Herman, Mueller Prost PC
Outlook: Planning for Profitability and Stability in 2013
by Laurie Harbour, Harbour Results, Inc.
Industry: 2013 Legislative Outlook
by William R. Carteaux, SPI
Production: Analysis of the Sales Management Process
by Troy Nix, MAPP, Inc.
MAPP: Association News
by MAPP, Inc.
Industry: FiberGraf Materials Launches New Website
by Plastics Business
Fall 2012
Marketing: Barriers to Sustainability in Plastics-related Industries
by Bonnie J. Bachman and Shristy Bashyal, Missouri University of Science and Technology, and Margaret Baumann, GHA Associates
Strategies: DOE Brings Benefits to Process Design
by Perry Parendo, Perry’s Solutions, Inc.
Profile: Indiana Rotomolding Capitalizes on Multiple Locations
by Dianna Brodine
Production: Pereles Brothers Joins Manufacturing Network
by Jen Clark
Focus: Plastikos Journeys Through ISO 14001 Certification
by Melissa DeDonder
Management: Waste Eradication Culture Starts with a Toilet Seat: A Conversation with Paul Akers
by Dianna Brodine
Solutions: Moving Beyond Traditional Mold Cleaning Methods
by Steve Johnson, ToolingDocs LLC
Trends: Why Plastic Flows Better in Aluminum Injection Molds
by David Bank, Aluminum Injection Mold Co., Dave Klafhen, Advent Tool, Ron Smierciak, Alcoa Forged and Cast Products
Summer 2012
Spotlight: Disaster Recovery Plan, Business Interruption Insurance Avert Catastrophe for MAPP Member by Staff
Profile: HK Plastics Engineering Designs its Own Competitive Advantage
by Dianna Brodine
Industry: Information Technology Benchmarks for Plastics Manufacturing Companies
by Staff
Strategies: Lights Out at Makuta Technics: Automation, Attitude Make High-Volume Unmanned Production Possible
by Dianna Brodine
Solutions: Process Enhancement Software Speeds Information-Gathering
by Amy Bauer
Focus: Product Development Pitfalls
by Tony Parker, Avance LLC
Production: The View from 30 Feet: Matrix Tooling, Inc. Works to Educate the Next Generation
by Staff
Marketing: Video Marketing for Manufacturers
by Todd Schuett, Creative Technology Corporation
Spring 2012
Outlook: Dissecting Global Competition: Insights from the NAPIS
by Jeff Mengel, Plante Moran
Strategies: Incentivizing Employees for Productivity and Quality
by Amy Bauer
Management: Incorporating Sustainable Development Behavior into Supplier Selection
by Larry Nitardy, ComAssist
Trends: The Value of Value-Added Services
by Dianna Brodine
Production: The View from 30 Feet: MAPP Plant Tour Events Benefit Attendees and Host
by Staff
Profile: Training for Medical Excellence at Trademark Plastics
by Dianna Brodine
Solutions: Water Leaks are Money down the Drain
by Steve Johnson, ToolingDocs LLC
Winter 2012
Solutions: Intellectual Property in Injection Molding Contract Terms and Conditions
by Roger A. Gilcrest, Ice Miller, LLP
Industry: Legislative Outlook 2012: Even in an Election Year, Plastics’ Progress Will Prevail on Federal Issues
by William R. Carteaux
Profile: Shifting Philosophies, Increasing Satisfaction at Currier Plastics
by Dianna Brodine
Trends: Additive Manufacturing Changes the Face of Molding
by Staff
Outlook: Plastics Industries Opportunities for 2012
by Laurie Harbour and Scott Walton, Harbour Results, Inc.
Production: The View from 30 Feet: Metro Plastics’ Incentive Plan for Key Employees
by Staff
Marketing: Three Responsibilities of Innovation
by AJ Sweatt
Fall 2011
Strategies: Are You Neglecting Your Brand Touchpoints?
by Teresa Schell, Strategic Marketing Partners, LLC
Profile: Conquering Complexity at Plastikos
by Dianna Brodine
Solutions: In-line or Off-line Decorating: A 10-Step Analysis
by Bob Coningsby, Apex Machine Company
Results: Job Compensation Study Reveals Interesting Trends
by Troy Nix
Trends: Supply Chain: What You May Not be Thinking About
by David Landsman, MFG.com
Production: The View from 30 Feet: Industrial Mold & Machine’s iPads and Social Network
by Staff
Management: Understanding Workers Compensation: The Role of Frontline Management
by William Wahoff, Scott, Scriven & Wahoff, LLP
Summer 2011
Industry: Assessing Sustainable Packaging through Life Cycle Analysis
by Chandler Slavin, Sustainability Coordinator, Dordan Manufacturing Co. Inc.
Solutions: Laboratory Services Important for Quality, R&D and Safety in the Plastics Industry
by Chad Jones, Sherry Laboratories
Strategies: Medical Injection Molding: Is it the future for your molding operation?
by David Lessard, Cook Polymer Technology
Profile: Pollmann North America: Driving Business Forward with a Commitment to Automotive
by Dianna Brodine
Production: The View from 30 Feet: Plastic Components, Inc.’s Tool Crib System
by Staff
Spring 2011
Solutions: Evaluating Your Mold Maintenance Direction
by Steve Johnson, ToolingDocs
Profile: Fast, Fluid and Flexible at Nicolet Plastics
by Dianna Brodine
Industry: GHS Bringing Changes to OSHA HazCom Standard
by Glenn D. Trout, MSDSonline
Strategies: Nanotechnology: Big Problems Come in Small Packages
by Kevin Murch, SZD
Trends: Polycarbonate and ABS Engineering Resins Markets See Global Tightening
by Adrian Beale, CMAI
Management: Succession Planning for Business Owners
by Nichole Crawford, JD, LL.M, CLU, ChFC, CAP, Federated Insurance
Production: The View from 30 Feet: SPI Industries and the Morning Huddle
Winter 2011
Profile: Eyes on the Future at i2tech
by Dianna Brodine
Solutions: Cost Savings Through Effective Purging
by John Pizzo, Sun Plastech, Inc.
Management: Examining Supplier Partnerships: Focus on Service, Knowledge
by Staff
Trends: Future Markets in Plastics: A Second Look
by Dr. Peter Mooney, Plastics Custom Research Services
Industry: Legislative Outlook: End of 2010 Provides Reasons for Optimism in 2011
by William R. Carteaux, SPI
Strategies: Plastics Processor Relative Value Drivers
by Michael D. Benson and David M. Evatz, SRR
Fall 2010
Solutions: IML Solutions – Five Experts Share Advice
by Renée Varella
Profile: Lean and Green at DOREL Juvenile Group
by Dianna Brodine
Strategies: Program Launch Coordinator – The Strategic Link
by Teresa Schell, Plastics Components, Inc.
Industry: The Economy and Plastics Processors: Cultural Shift Remains Key to Survival
by Laurie Harbour, Harbour Results, Inc.
Management: Trade Show Exhibition Tips
by Julie K. Buzbee
Summer 2010
Bonus Content: Closed-Loop Process Cooling Independent Case Study: Energy, Operations and Other Resources
by Gerald Church, UC Davis Energy Efficiency Center and Glen La Palme, PL Energy LLC
Energy Savings: Evaluating Energy Consumption of Molding Machines: What Have We Learned in 40 Years?
by Mark Elsass, Cincinnati Milacron
Energy Savings: Going Green with Purging Compounds
by Andrew Reeder, Moulds Plus International
Energy Savings: Process Cooling: Optimize Plant Processes and Drive Down Costs
by Lou Zavala, Frigel
Industry: Recruiting Youth to Manufacturing: Addressing the Aging Workforce in Plastics Processing
by Dianna Brodine
Energy Savings: Saving Energy in Dryers, Material Handling, and Granulators
by Doug Brewster, The Conair Group, Inc.
Management: Timeline: Impact of Health Care Reform on Employers
by Miranda Morgan and David Ball, SZD
Strategies: Website: Hype? Or Hot Spot?
by Mark Hanaway, Tech Molded Plastics, Inc.
Spring 2010
Focus: 2010 MAPP Engineering Services Report – Offering Engineering Services as a Fee for Service
by Staff
Profile: Changing the Mindset at DeKalb Molded Plastics
by Dianna Brodine
Management: Creating a Culture Focused on Wellness
by Dianna Brodine
Industry: State of the Plastics Industry – MAPP’s 1st Quarter Assessment
by Staff
Strategies: Tool Transfer Q&A
by Mike Juda and Jerry Gorrell, Polymer Conversions, Inc.
Trends: Trends in Enterprise Resource Planning Systems
by Daniele Fresca, IQMS
Winter 2010
Management: Planning for Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity
by Dianna Brodine
Trends: Plastics Markets: The Road Ahead
by Dr. Peter Mooney
Strategies: Pricing for Profitability: The Company with the Best Cost Accountant Wins
by John L. Daly and Craig Carrel
Industry: Priority Federal Legislative Issues in 2010
by William R. Carteaux
Profile: The Next Generation in Plastics Leadership
by Dianna Brodine
Fall 2009
Profile: Transforming with the Times at Blow Molded Specialties
by Dianna Brodine
Focus: Permanent and Durable Decoration with IMD
by David Coughlin and Dave Washburn, Industramark™, a Standard Register Business
Strategies: Substantiating Research Tax Credits in Today’s Environment
by Michael J. Devereux II and Adam J. Herman, CPA/ABV/CFF, CVA, ASA
Production: The Importance of Mold Design to Productivity
by John E. Haley, AQA Corp.
Trends: The Pros and Cons of Reusable Containers
by Thomas R. Cutler, TR Cutler, Inc.
Spring 2009
Profile: ATEK Plastics: Bringing Its A-Team to the Molding Game
by Dianna Brodine
Production: Investing in Energy-Saving Improvements
by Ryan Thompson, Murphy Company
Focus: Modular Molds Contribute to Lean Manufacturing Success
by Ken Jenkins, Pleasant Precision, Inc.
Strategies: Terms and Conditions: Contracting for Economic Certainty
by Josef Keglewitsch and Laura Hult, Schottenstein Zox & Dunn Co., L.P.A.
Production: Using Purging Compound to Streamline Production Costs and Reduce Waste
by John Pizzo, Sun Plastech Inc.
Winter 2009
Applying Viral Marketing to Your Business
by Dianna Brodine
CPSIA and the Green Chemistry Initiative – Recent Environmental Regulations Affecting the Plastics Molding Industry
by Dianna Brodine
Dymotek: Setting a Safe Course Through Rough Economic Waters
by Dianna Brodine
Economic Outlook and Trends
by Jeff Mengel, Plante & Moran
Let’s Go Viral! (But First, What Is It?)
by T.J. Tedesco, Grow Sales, Inc.
Optimizing Mold Performance and Maintenance Efficiency
by Steve Johnson, Progressive Components
Online-Only: Optimizing Mold Performance and Maintenance Efficiency: Part II
by Steven Johnson
Fall 2008
Profile: C&J Industries: Dedicated to Education. Molding the Future
by Dianna Brodine
Production: Real-Time Shop Floor Integration: The Right ERP System Can Make It Happen
by Excerpts from a Technical White Paper by IQMS
Strategies: Reducing Workers Compensation Claims: Solutions From Plastics Processors
by Staff
Focus: Today’s Raw Material Market: Outlook and Opportunities
by Mike Bradley and Scott Horn, PolyOne Distribution
Summer 2008
Industry: Finding the Right Moldmaker
Profile: Ironwood Plastics Declares, “Challenge Us!”
by Dianna Brodine
Strategies: Over 12,000 Companies a Month Search the Internet for Injection Molding
Q&A: Resin Purchasing Strategies
Spring 2008
Production: A Continuous Improvement Idea: Update Your Costing and Quoting Process
by Tim Lewis
Profile: PRD, Inc.: Remaining Agile in a Changing Market
by Dianna Brodine
Strategies: We Don’t Need to Assess Our Operations – We Are Doing Great!
by Laurie Harbour-Felax
Winter 2008
Strategies: Flying Blind? Defining Cost Drivers Leads to Success
by Jeff Mengel
Focus: Focus on Efficient Operations
Industry: MAPP Report: 2007 Raw Materials Survey
Profile: TEAM 1 Michigan: Forward Thinking for Upward Growth
Fall 2007
Industry: The True Cost of Doing Business in China
by Kym Conis
Strategies: To Decorate or Not to Decorate – That is the Question!
by Jeff Peterson
Profile: World Class Plastics: Simplicity Equals Success
by Dianna Bodine
Summer 2007
Profile: Modern Day Midas: Changing Metal to Plastic at Thogus Products Company
by Dianna Brodine
Focus: Q&A: Recycling
Spring 2007
Industry: Best Practices for Implementing and Utilizing a Standards-based QMS
by Lee Pfennigwerth, SRI Quality System Registrar
Success: Fremont Plastics: Competing One Detail at a Time
by Kym Conis
Profile: Polymer Conversions, Inc.: Better Well Done, Than Well Said
by Dianna Brodine
Strategies: Understanding and Benefiting from Service Agreements
by Christopher Kleck, President, Pro Plastics Sales & Service, Inc.
Winter 2007
Focus: Are You Ready For RFID?
by Al Wilson
Special Report: Metro Plastics Technologies – The Emphasis is on Solutions
by Kym Conis
Strategies: New Technology Brings Supplier and Buyer Together
by Mary Napier
Production: The Future of Automation
by John Tite
Management: What You Should Know about Life Settlements
by Leo LaGrotte
Summer 2006
Strategies: Building Your Pentad for Partnering Success
by Ed Rigsbee, CSP
Focus: Customized Solutions in Auxiliary Equipment Provide Maximum Efficiencies
by Staff
Management: Inject Cash Into Your Bottom Line with the Research and Experimentation (R&E) Tax Credit
by Adam J. Herman, CPA/ABV, CVA, ASA and Michael J. Devereux II
Production: Lean Manufacturing or Operations Transformation … Which is it?
by Laurie Harbour-Felax, ASG Renaissance
Profile: Plastic Components, Inc.: Making the Customer Part of the Equation
by Dianna Brodine
Association: Training System Creates Advantages for Plastics Processors
by Staff
Spring 2006
Buyers Report: ERP Software Applications: What Can ERP Systems Do for Your Business?
by Staff
Production: Turning Your Plastics Processing Facility Into a Profit Center
by Richard W. Sievert
