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The Rise of the Tier 0.5 Supplier

January 21, 2019

The role of automotive suppliers is structured into tiers. The tiered structure has given clarity and understanding to both industry outsiders and observers as to which company is responsible for which component or technology. The automotive value chain has changed. Technology is advancing at such…

A Material Revolution is Changing the Manufacturing Industry

January 16, 2019

Materials science may be one of the more important technologies of the next decade. Manufacturers need new materials to create more advanced products. Manufacturers also need to replace materials subject to supply disruptions, like rare earth elements. Traditionally, developing new materials has been a slow,…

The Amazon Effect is Changing Manufacturing

January 14, 2019

The “Amazon Effect” is a term many have heard, but what does it mean? While it can mean different things to different people, in general, it refers to the phenomenon of how consumers’ interactions with Amazon are driving new expectations for how buyers and suppliers…

More Seeking Outside Provider Assistance and Collaboration

January 10, 2019

Today’s opportunities require cooperation across the ecosystem at large. As indicated by Forbes Insights research, transportation-focused executives will not only be looking to hire outside providers for a wider array of services, but they will also be seeking closer collaboration with suppliers, customers and even competitors….

Maximize Your Team

January 07, 2019

The effects of team building activities for work go beyond keeping team members energized. The development of workplace teams is essential to maximize the on the job experience. Knowing that an employer values your presence enough to invest in your future with the company can…

Auto Lenders Offer Payment Relief to U.S. Government Workers During Shutdown

January 04, 2019

For the duration of the U.S. government shutdown, several auto lenders are offering payment relief on a case-by-case basis to affected customers. Nearly 800,000 federal employees have either been furloughed or have been working without pay since Dec. 21 when a bipartisan deal to fund the…

Do Not Look to Advanced Auto Safety Systems to Save Money

January 02, 2019

Advances in automotive safety engineering and technology have come a long way over the last half century and they save many lives.  Unfortunately, these advances will not save you money, at least not yet. These advanced systems being referred to warn motorists of possible forward collisions,…

2018’s Top Productivity Disruptions

December 28, 2018

If you were told not to think of a pink elephant, you will more than likely picture an image of a pink elephant. This is called the Ironic Process theory, the psychological process whereby deliberate attempts to suppress certain thoughts makes them more likely to…

2019 Goals Automotive Industry Should Consider

December 26, 2018

The most important part of the end of year is reflecting on lessons learned and determining what they mean for the year(s) ahead. What should automotive industry consider for 2019? Below are few observations. IT integration and change in corporate culture Manufacturers are recommended to…

Driverless Car Bill Needs Adjustments

December 19, 2018

There are many different industry and interest groups that have a stake in the outcome of the driverless car bill. The bill passed the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee by a voice vote in October, and a companion bill sailed through the House last year….