5 Ways to Immediately Improve Factory Safety

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All it takes is one wrong move for a factory to shut down entirely. And that’s before getting into the money workman’s comp claims or lawsuits can cost your business.

From a dangling wire to a slippery surface, there’s so much that can go wrong. Your employees work hard for you, so return the favor by giving them a safe work environment.

Safety keeps employees happier, healthier, and even more productive. Read on for some easy ways to improve factory safety.

5 Ways to Immediately Improve Factory Safety

1. Invest in Training and Ongoing Training Programs

One of the easiest ways you can keep employees safe is by maintaining a regular training regimen. It isn’t enough to just send your employees onto the factory floor after watching a few videos.

Your employees deserve to really get the ins-and-outs of the factory lifestyle. After all, they’re surrounded by thousands of pounds of heavy machinery.

Invest in training for your employees and you’ll have a stronger, safer workplace.

2. Maintain Equipment

From cranes to presses to vehicles of all shapes and sizes, there’s a lot to keep up with in a factory. Rubber wears down, chains rust, and brakes need to be replaced. And if you’ve ever seen a mechanical malfunction, you know how debilitating it can be.

Keep track of your equipment and maintain it on a regular basis. There could be obsolete pieces in some of your machinery.

Make sure you have an updated log of when machines and equipment were last maintained or repaired. You may be shocked to discover just how overdue your equipment is for basic maintenance.

3. Evaluate Your Workplace Environment

Just as equipment needs regular maintenance, factory safety involves regular cleanings and changes. Take some time to evaluate your work environment and determine whether or not safety changes need to be made.

If you need some help, there are plenty of helpful checklists online to let you know what to look for. Think about some of the following as you walk the aisles of your workplace:

  • Codes of conduct between workers
  • Material management and placement
  • How or if procedures are followed
  • Employee compliances with safety procedures
  • Cleanliness
  • Easy exits in case of an emergency
  • Access to safety materials such as fire extinguishers

4. Allow For Frequent Breaks

One of the leading causes of workplace accidents isn’t due to mechanics — it’s due to employees. Keep workers happy and refreshed by allowing for frequent breaks.

Recently, Tyson Foods found themselves at the center of a horrible controversy. Tyson violated several codes by not allowing for frequent restroom breaks.

Avoid these costly mistakes. Factory safety will improve and your workers will be happier and more productive.

5. Make Sure Employees Have Access to Proper Equipment

Our final step is perhaps the simplest. The easiest way to improve factory safety is just by giving workers access to safety tools.

Be it hard hats, goggles, hair nets, or even ear plugs, access to these simple tools keeps workers safe.

With these 5 steps, you can keep workers happier and healthier. And if you’re in the market for new machinery, be sure to contact us. From easy repairs to full-on replacements, we can keep your factory safe for less.

Why Should My Crane Wheels Be Flame Hardened?

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Thinking about how to extend the life of your equipment?

Flame hardened crane wheels can offer many advantages. The extra effort and investment of using flame hardened wheels are likely to pay off for you and your company in the long run.

Today, we’re taking a look at just why this decision is the one to make.

Ready to learn more? Let’s get started!

What is Flame Hardening?

Flame hardening treats the surface of a component through the direct application of a flame. The flame is usually generated by fuel gas like acetylene and oxygen.

When the application of fire hardens the surface sufficiently, it is then cooled with oil or water.

There are two kinds of flame hardening processes: spinning and tooth-at-a-time processes.

Spinning is recommended for the high-volume production level. It provides consistent results because it is the same cycle for the entire gear. Tooth-at-a-time offers more strength along with durability. This process is best for very large gears.

Tooth-at-a-time offers more strength along with durability. This process is best for very large gears.

Increased Protection Against Wear and Tear

The most important advantage to flame hardening for crane wheels is that it creates a hard outside surface. This process leaves a core which is better able to absorb shock, with less distortion. It also results in more durability and bending strength.

Wear and tear usually occurs at the points of consistent physical contact, such as the outer rim of the wheel. The intersection of gears and wheel sprockets usually receives the harshest impact, so this is the area is best suited for flame hardening.

The focus of the flame concentrates the effects on the point of contact, leaving the rest of the wheel workable.

Flame hardening protects wheels from ongoing abrasions and impact, extending the life of the wheels and ensuring safety.

It’s Cheaper to Modernize

Adding modernized elements to your fleet such as flame hardened wheels will actually save you money in the long run.

The investment you make now in your equipment makes you more competitive, functional and safe in the marketplace.

Using crane wheels that have been flame hardened will extend the life of your equipment. It will also result in lower maintenance and replacement costs. Your company will experience less downtime, waiting for old equipment to get fixed.

These improvements will increase your productivity and shorten your production schedules, making you more appealing to customers. It shows your customers that you are forward-thinking and up on the latest developments.

Investing now in these kinds of upgrades will help grow your business in the future.

Improving the Safety of Crane Wheels

Because of the potential for catastrophic consequences, crane safety needs to be your top priority.

Cranes are large, complex machines that often operate in crowded locations. It is imperative for the safety of your employees and the people in the community where you are working that all of your equipment is in optimal working order.

Worn out gears and wheels can result in serious damage or injuries, exposing you to liability under OSHA and other regulations.

Flame hardening makes good business sense as a cost effective way to protect your staff and work space.

Extend the Life of Your Equipment and Business

Industrial businesses face increasing pressure to keep costs low and production high to maintain profits.

Flame hardening your crane wheels addresses both of those concerns by keeping repair and downtime costs down, and production efficiency high.  It can also play an integral role in protecting your assets, including machinery, parts, and employees.

Contact us to learn more today!

How to Replace a Hydraulic Hose

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If you are interacting with heavy equipment on a daily basis, chances are you’re familiar with hydraulic pumps. After all, most farming equipment and other heavy machinery run on hydraulics.

When your hydraulic hose leaks, though, it can be a huge hassle, especially if you aren’t familiar with how to replace it.

You can always go the professional route and have someone replace the hose for you, but really, the job is more dirty than difficult. If you’re willing to roll up your sleeves and do the job yourself, you can save time and money.

So let’s look at the steps to replacing a hydraulic hose.

1. Find the Issue

Chances are, your heavy machinery has more than one hose, and it’s important to figure out exactly which one is damaged before you start taking things apart.

It may be obvious if the hose has actually burst, but if it’s just a leak, pick up some hydraulic leak detection fluid to help pinpoint the source of the leak.

2. Assess the Situation

You need to check for two things before you remove the fittings and hose.

First, determine exactly how many components are going to need to be removed for you to safely remove the troublesome hose.

Second, make sure to relieve the pressure from any components directly connected to the hose. This ensures you won’t get a face full of oil when you start removing pieces.

3. Safety First

Heavy machinery is called heavy for a reason. Make absolutely sure that any pieces controlled by the hose are lowered to the ground and can’t fall on you while you work.

You already have a leaky hose. You don’t need to be crushed to death as well.

4. Get Everything out of the Way

Heavy machinery can be a mass of fittings and couplings and attachments and clamps.

Make sure everything around the broken hose is removed so you have a clear view and a clear work area.

5. Loosen the Fittings

Now to get into the real business of removing the hose.

First thing is to loosen the fitting that attaches the hydraulic hose to your equipment. This might be the valve spool, the cylinder, or the coupling, so make sure you’re in the right place.

Also make sure that as you loosen, nothing but the fitting is turning.

6. Remove the Hose

Get that hose off. Don’t worry about cleaning it yet. We’ll get to that in a minute.

It is important to have a bucket handy at this point, though, because some oil will probably spill from both the coupling and the hose.

7. Plug the Fittings

To avoid more leaking oil while you are picking up a replacement hose, make sure you plug the fittings.

The best option here is a plug made for the specific fitting, but if you don’t have one handy, a clean rag will work. Your goal is just to make sure no dirt or debris finds its way into the machine.

8. Match the Hose

Now it’s time to take your hose down to your supplier or dealer and either order a replacement or have a new one made. Most dealerships do both.

Just make sure you clean the hose off. You don’t want to be handling and transporting something coated in oil if you don’t have to.

9. Install the New Hydraulic Hose

Once that new hose comes in, get it back on your equipment!

Make sure you’re using temporary plugs on the hydraulic hose itself to ensure everything stays clean during installation.

Replace the fittings, replace any clamps or guards you removed, and check the fluid levels. You’re ready to turn your equipment back on and see how good a job you did.

10. Check for Leaks

Fire up your equipment and check the area for leaks. If everything looks good, congratulations! You just replaced your own hydraulic hose!

If you need any additional help, feel free to get in touch with us.

Semi-metallic Brake Pads Vs. Sintered Brake Pads. What’s The Difference?

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Semi-metallic Brake Pads Vs. Sintered Brake Pads. What’s The Difference?

Every part of a machine is crucial to the safety of its operation. In the case of brake pads, failing to have the right ones could be catastrophic. Two commonly mentioned options include the semi-metallic brake pads and the sintered ones.

Aside from those two, there are ceramic and organic brake pads. Ceramic pads are composites of ceramic fibers and copper. They are very expensive but operate well.

Organic pads are from fiber materials mixed with resins. Though they are cheap, they function well. Unfortunately, they do not last.

This brings us to the two common ones. What is the difference between semi-metallic and sintered brake pads? Read on to learn more.

Features of Sintered and Semi-Metallic Brake Pads

When parts of your machine don’t work, you start poring over the maintenance manual to find solutions. A better solution would be to call a professional service provider to fix it for you. They know how to solve machine issues.

Brake pads can be frustrating depending on the one you have. Choosing the right one is not easy. Here are some details to help you sort out between sintered and semi-metallic brake pads.

Sintered Brake Pads

Manufacturers make sintered brakes by fusing metal particles and other materials. They bind together due to heat and pressure. They can use metals like copper or bronze.

These brake pads have the following features:

  • the mixture of elements gives it a lot of friction
  • functions well under high temperatures
  • performs well in various weather conditions
  • it is long-lasting
  • withstands high speeds
  • takes long to start operating smoothly
  • make a lot of noise
  • they don’t glaze
  • wear down the rotors
  • can be expensive due to the manufacturing process and materials.

Semi-Metallic Brake Pads

Semi-metallic brake pads contain metals such as copper, graphite, and iron. They also mix composite alloys and fillers to complete its manufacture. These brake pads are popular among race drivers.

They have the following features:

  • they tolerate high temperatures
  • have high friction levels and great grip
  • they are affordable
  • they are durable
  • different brands use different metal mixtures and ratios
  • don’t make as much noise as the sintered pads
  • don’t cause the same level of rotor wear and tear as the sintered pads
  • function well in cold conditions
  • tend to glaze due to producing brake dust.
  • work well in light or heavy-duty usage.
  • they need a bedding-in period
  • pedals are firmer
  • are great for everyday use in different environments.

As you can see, both of these brake pads offer you different options. The choice you make depends on the performance you want, the compounds you prefer, the environment you are in, and your budget.

Of the two, the best choice is the semi-metallic pads. These offer a combination of two worlds: the organic and the sintered versions. Thus, you get pads that operate at high temperatures, are durable, and easier on your wallet.

Learn More About Our Products and Services

You can get more information on brakes and other industrial parts. Some machines need very specific parts.  Contact us and we will help you find the solution you want.

Industrial Safety: 4 Tips for Ensuring Safety on an Oil Rig

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Do you love working on an oil rig? If so, you’ve probably gone through a fair amount of industrial safety training.

Yet, working on an oil rig can be a dangerous job. For example, the Minerals Management Service handles offshore drilling and reported 39 fires or explosions in the first five months of 2009 alone.

Clearly, you can never be too safe. To ensure that you’re protected from the hazards of an oil rig,  take a look at our tips below.

Keep reading to learn about the top four tips for keeping you safe on an oil rig. Let’s get right into it!

Keep the machines working properly

While it may seem that the first thing you do should revolve around keeping people protected, it is actually incredibly important to keep the machines running smoothly.

These machines can make or break the safety of workers on the oil rig. As such, it is essential to keep the machines working properly.

You need to treat the machinery well and keep it running smoothly or else you may endanger your life and the lives of those around you.

Be sure that everyone around you is properly trained in handling the machinery. Don’t forget to take part in regular maintenance and checkups of the equipment.

Keep repair and safety tool boxes nearby

You can never have too many safety tool boxes around. Be sure that repair equipment and tool boxes are stashed in all corners of the oil rig.

You also want to make sure you have enough first aid kits located in easy to reach places. You never know when someone might get injured and need first aid immediately.

Industrial safety precautions require repair tool boxes and first aid kits to be available on all industrial sites. However, this is especially vital for oil rigs located in the sea.

Request to have more supplies than you think is needed just in case you end up in short supply. You will likely need welding gear, power tools, plumbing equipment, electrical tools, and more.

Be sure you have all the repair and safety tool boxes you need at every corner of the oil rig.

Be on the alert at all times

You never know when an accident may occur so it is really important to stay alert. Often, an accident can happen rapidly and without warning.

Keep your eyes out for any falling equipment and keep focused on your machinery. Remain a safe distance away from any moving equipment as well.

Keep an eye out for your co-workers and avoid bumping into anyone. Remain alert at all times when you’re working on an oil rig.

Need another industrial safety tip? Wear your protective gear!

To avoid getting hurt, be sure to wear high-quality protective gear.

The protective accessories may vary from job to job. you may wear one thing when welding and something completely different when operating heavy machinery.

You may need to wear goggles, gloves, face protection accessories, and more. Whatever the protective gear may be, be sure to keep it on at all times.

To keep yourself and your coworkers safe, consider getting one of our crane inspections. If you need products or services for your industrial works, get in touch with us.

The Difference Between DC and AC Motors

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Looking for a new motor?

It’s important to know the difference between DC and AC motors before you make your purchase.

While DC and AC motors perform the same function, there are some critical distinctions to keep in mind.

Read on to learn more.

Power source

AC motors rely on an alternating current (A.C.) for their power. This involves an electric current that changes back and forth over time.

On the other hand, DC motors use a direct current power source (D.C.) in order to operate. Direct current power sources include batteries, solar cells, and DC power converters.

AC motors require external assistance in beginning their operation. DC motors can start on their own.

Types

There are two different types of AC motors: Induction and synchronous motors.

Induction AC motors rely on an induced current while synchronous AC motors rotate at supply frequency.

AC motors can be single or three phase.

There are also two types of DC motors: a DC motor with brushes, and one without brushes.

All DC motors are single phase.

Construction and Maintenance

An AC motor incorporates a stator and rotor and several other components.

Because AC motors do not require brushes, they don’t necessitate a lot of maintenance.

DC motors are commutated mechanically. This means that they require more maintenance than AC motors.

Life Expectancy and Cost

AC motors are, in general, built to last. They are tough, industrial motors that can withstand rugged conditions.

These motors are also designed to provide power over longer stretches of time.

DC motors require more maintenance and generally have shorter life spans than their AC counterpart.

DC motor parts can be expensive to replace once damaged or worn down.

As a result, DC motors tend to not be as cost-effective as an AC. AC motors are generally inexpensive and outlast DC motors in performance and durability.

Speed Control

DC motors have the advantage of external speed control. This is especially useful in situations where the motor speed needs to be monitored externally.

An AC motor’s speed is controlled by changing its frequency.

Application and Use

DC motors are still really useful for a variety of industrial purposes. This includes paper and steel mill machines.

AC motors are ideal for any industrial application that requires high and extended power performance.

An AC motor can operate in multiple situations and does not depend upon the quality of the power current or its flow.

These motors are used for more general purposes than DC motors. They are starting to take over the motor market as a more durable and long-lasting motor.

The Takeaway on the Difference Between DC and AC Motors

The basic difference between AC and DC motors is in their source of power. These motors are also built differently and have very distinct life expectancy.

If you are deciding between a DC or AC motor, it’s important to keep in mind what you intend to use your motor for, and what type of performance you are seeking.

AC motors tend to be more durable and cost-effective, in comparison to DC motors.

Still undecided? We can help you find one that suits your industrial needs.

5 Tips for Industrial Coupling Maintenance

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Maintenance on your equipment is key to ensuring safety. And just like human beings, equipment needs a routine checkup in order to run efficiently.

Industrial coupling is no different. In order to save time and money on repairs, you’ll need to know the best ways to maintain your equipment.

Read on to learn the five tips for industrial coupling maintenance.

1. Disassemble the industrial coupling

When you’re inspecting the coupling, you’ll need to look into every crack and crevice. To do this, you’ll need to completely or partially disassemble the entire coupling.

This gives you a better view of the inside components. You’ll need to check for wear and tear, and also ensure that there are no alignment issues. Look for lubricants that have hardened, as this can also cause damage to the couplings themselves.

2. Ensure there’s enough lubrication

If the industrial coupling requires lubrication, you’ll need to make sure there is enough for optimal performance. Some of the types of couplings that require lubrication include:

  • Fluid
  • Geared
  • Chain
  • Grid joints

If your couplings are not properly lubricated, things will get complicated. The couplings need appropriate lube in order to move properly. If not, there may be issues with functionality that could ruin the couplings.

Additional lubrication may be necessary when you’re doing maintenance checks. Leaking can occur throughout time, so you’ll need to check to ensure there’s enough fluid within the couplings.

Make sure that you’re using the appropriate lubrication per the manufacturer’s requirements. Lubrication can differ depending on the type and manufacturer.

3. Be careful of contamination

As stated previously, it’s necessary that you take care when you’re inspecting an industrial coupling. Contamination can occur if you’re not careful. This can be particularly damaging to the couplings.

When you’re using solvents to clean or flush the coupling, make sure that you’re fully removing them. Otherwise, this can contaminate the equipment. Contamination will also thin the lubricant.

If any foreign particles enter the couplings, this can also cause damage to the machine.

4. Replace if necessary

If you’ve found wear and tear on the coupling, you may have to replace it. Couplings are generally inexpensive, so if you think that a replacement is necessary, you’ll save time and money on more expensive repairs.

Should the couplings need replacing, and they are not, it could affect other parts of the machine.

5. Reduce the use of the couplings

As with any machinery, the less it’s used, the longer it will last. But depending on your industry, this may not be an option.

Some other ways you can ensure that your couplings last longer is to watch how you’re operating the equipment. Hard braking and shock loading can greatly affect the condition of the machinery.

Conclusion

Proper inspection always ensures that machinery is up to proper standards. It will save you time and money to prevent more expensive repairs.

Plus, it will keep your equipment and couplings lasting a long time.

If you’re in the need for help with your business needs, we’re here to help. Contact us with any questions you may have.

How Will Manufacturing Jobs Come Back to the US?

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Over the past few decades, there has been an increasing concern over manufacturing jobs in the United States.

Jobs have previously been lost to cheaper alternatives overseas. At home, people find themselves competing with technology for a place on the manufacturing line.

It seems, though, manufacturing jobs are set to come back in the coming years.

Recent trends have pointed to shifting tides in the job market, particularly in steel, rail, and energy industries. Many questions have come as well. We are here to talk about how manufacturing will resurface in the United States.

Here Are Three Questions About Manufacturing Jobs in the United States

1. What Is the Current State of Manufacturing Jobs?

The United States has seen a rise in jobs coming back to the states since 2014 – the first time we had a net increase in jobs in over 20 years.

Both reshoring and foreign direct investment have put jobs back on American soil at a steady pace. Reshoring is a term used when American companies bring jobs back home rather than overseas. Foreign direct investment is when other countries take interest in creating jobs under the stars and stripes.

Reasons for shifting the workforce include wage prices increasing overseas, the cost and efficiency of shipping, and corporate image.

In the past, companies have opted for places like China to fill their workloads. Labor demands have shifted, though, causing some companies to look elsewhere.

Making cheap products is one thing, but getting the product in the hands of the consumer is the ultimate goal. Building closer to the customer makes shipping and handling much more efficient. It also cuts costs significantly.

Additionally, Americans shop with American pride. Knowing a product is made in the United States sheds positive light on a company supporting the economy at home rather than elsewhere.

2. Which Companies Are Bringing Jobs Back to the United States?

One of the most well-recognized companies nationwide is Amazon. As one of the leaders making moves back to the states, in January 2017 they announced an initiative to create 100,000 American jobs within eighteen months.

Not just any jobs, either. The company plans to bring on full-time employees with all benefits, ranging in work from fulfillment centers to software developers.

Ford Motor Company recently shifted lanes. Instead of taking on a new plant in Mexico, the auto maker is expanding a site already on American turf. They hope to add 700 jobs to the market.

Hyundai, a South Korean brand, is right behind Ford. Actually, they are passing the native auto maker by planning to increase spending in the states by 50%. First up is $3.1 billion over the next five years.

3. What Progress Can Be Expected?

The shifts are happening, and over the years the job market will better reflect decisions being made in big companies. Reshored jobs are coming in from China, Germany, and Japan.

Automotive companies are at the front of the line knocking on America’s door again, but players in electronics are right behind. From interests to boost the economy back up, and American pride with it, all signs point home.

For more information and articles like this, subscribe to our blog below or contact us directly.

How to Replace Your Twiflex Brakes

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Twiflex Brakes present industrial operations with a strong, reliable heavy-duty braking system. There are times though, with repeated usage, when they need to be replaced.

Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to do in order to correctly, and safely, replace your Twiflex Brakes.

Maintenance = Longevity and Safety

Twiflex Brakes are a drum braking system. With proper care and maintenance, they should last for years.

Maintenance can be broken into three key parts. Each part has equal weight in its importance to the braking system and to your company as a whole.

Constant upkeep will not only keep brakes functioning, it will also help maintain the safety of the equipment. When the brakes do need to be replaced though, keep that idea of safety going by using the proper equipment and protective gear.

The third leg of the maintenance stand is monetary. There is an investment to be made for regular maintenance of your Twiflex Breaking system.

Over the course of time though that investment will pay itself back with less downtime for your machines and fewer man hours spent on a machine that’s not functioning properly.

Replacement, Is It Time?

Do your breaks squeal? Is there reaction time low? Do they vibrate when being used? Do they feel like they pull? is there a grinding sound when they are engaged?

If the answer to any of these is yes then replacement is the best option. (Of course, you should also keep an eye on your instrument panel for an indication when things are not working at 100%)

The Replacement Process for Twiflex Brakes

Of course, the first step is to take the old brake system apart. First take the system off-line and disconnect it from any available power sources.

It’s a good idea to take images of the process as you go. Those pictures can be a helpful reminder of how the system needs to go back together.

If you’ll be replacing cylinders during this maintenance repair, you’ll also need to bleed the brake lines. This will make the entire process go smoother and ultimately safer.

You’ll first need to remove the brake adjuster. Remember at each step of the process, DO NOT force any of the parts to come off or apart.

If parts do not want to separate, use an appropriate solvent to loosen them. You can also try to use a lever or similar device to change your position and gently apply additional force.

With the brake adjuster off, you can access the rotors. Loosen and remove those.

Dismantle the brake components and then rebuild the system with the new Twiflex brake parts.

Performance

It’s very important that you follow all of the suggested steps when installing your Twiflex Brakes. Not only for safety’s sake but to optimize performance also.

As you have seen, Twiflex Brakes provide a safe, secure breaking option for industrial machines. Installation is easy and with proper maintenance, they will last you for many years.

When you’re ready to explore Twiflex Brakes for your machines or if you need some help with maintenance of your existing system, just contact us. We’re happy to help.

5 Major Trends in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management

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Purchasing and supply chain management is a constantly growing business with new practices being introduced or abandoned with growing frequency.

Due to the nature of managing a supply chain, with all of its various moving parts, shifting ideologies have been the primary force behind new trends in the industry.

Here are five major ones any quality supply chain manager should start paying attention to.

1. Vested Outsourcing

So much of supply management involves working with a number of different companies each with their own goals, bottom lines, customer bases, etc. The idea behind vested outsourcing is to form a more permanent bond between these disparate companies.

Now that doesn’t mean there has to be a merger. Simply share common goals with each other in order to establish a sense of comradery. If companies have a tangible sense of helping each other succeed, they are more likely to do so.

In essence, create win-win business scenarios that all members of the supply chain can enjoy.

2. Radical Collaboration

Purchasing and supply chain management is essentially about relationships. The idea behind radical collaboration is removing the inherent boundaries that exist between companies.

Again, this doesn’t have to happen via a merger. The beauty of a supply chain is it functions via companies who are not competing with one another but working together.

By increasing transparency and being truthful about your individual company’s circumstances, you will be well on your way to forging a deeper, more productive bond with your supply chain collaborators.

3. Sustainability and Safety

Now more than ever, companies need to start paying attention to the ways in which they are impacting the environment, their employees, and their customers.

Accidents happen very publically these days, so it’s vital for every company along the supply chain to keep their equipment up to snuff.

Customers and investors are paying attention to the how companies are affecting the world around them. Make sure yours is not getting left behind.

4. Digitization of Purchasing and Supply Chain Mangement

Purchasing and supply chain management is relying more and more on analytics. The amount of data we are now able to record and process have provided companies with the tools required to reevaluate their business model.

Smart, forward thinking companies are looking to discover inefficiencies along their supply lines. Who is not taking advantage of every opportunity to maximize efficiency? Who can we afford to cut-out or replace with something more effective?

With the right data, a supply chain manager can look at the big picture using cold, hard facts in order to make decisions.

5. Developing Locally

More and more consumers are paying attention to where their products are being developed and shipped from. During the recent economic crisis, many looked to companies who outsourced their supply chain overseas to countries with a cheaper labor force.

This practice is becoming harder and harder to defend in the eyes of the ultimate consumer. If you base your supply chain locally, using home-grown companies to fuel it, you will not just build up good will in the eyes of your customers. You will start seeing more and more of their money as well.

By adopting these five trends and working with efficient, forward-looking companies, you will be able to adapt your purchasing and supply chain to fit a constantly shifting industry.