Falconer Electronics

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Wire Harness Assembly Standards: IPC/WHMA-A-620C

Following IPC Wire Harness Assembly Standards offers tremendous benefits for Wire Harness Manufacturers.

The Wire Harness Manufacturer's Association and the IPC (Association Connecting Electronics Industries) combined forces to create the "IPC/​WHMA-A-620A Requirements and Acceptance for Cable and Wire Harness Assemblies" which is an amazing resource for Wire Harness Manufacturers.

The IPC/WHMA-A-620C serves as the only industry-consensus international Wire Harness Assembly Standard for the performance and acceptance of cable and wire harness assemblies.

As you well know, manufacturing products based on strict industry standards creates a healthy competitive advantage.

This also ensures high quality products which in turn creates satisfied customers.

Consequently, manufacturing Wire Harness Assemblies falls in this category.

Especially since Wire Harness Manufacturing comes with many challenges.

There are many moving parts (no pun intended).

In particular, electrical components keep getting smaller and smaller.

This invites many demands for Wire Harness Manufacturers to stay current with proper crimp tools and equipment due to decreasing sizes.

In addition, staff training also plays a critical role.

As a result, keeping current with Wire Harness Assembly Standards keeps a company aligned with customer expectations.

For that reason, closely following IPC/WHMA-A-620C Wire Harness Assembly Standards serves as an absolute top priority for Wire Harness Manufacturers.

IPC/WHMA-A-620C: Wire Harness Assembly Standards

Creating a wire harness assembly without following a standardized guide could lead to disaster.

Above all, poor assembly methods creates extremely unhappy customers.

The guiding principle of the IPC Wire Harness Assembly standardization efforts include the following:

Show relationship for Design for Manufacturability and Design for the Environment

Minimize time to market

Contain simple language

Focus on end product performance

Include a feedback system on use and problems for future improvement

Most importantly, the standard creates a consistency among manufacturers and purchasers. Maintaining a consistent level of acceptability helps prevent misunderstandings between parties.

Additionally, the IPC standard follows all procedures to qualify for ANSI approval.

Above all, this book deliver priceless information for seasoned veterans as well as those brand new to creating a wire harness.

For example, manufacturers, engineers and new product developers will find information in this book invaluable.

This book covers a wealth of topics including preparation, soldered and crimp terminations, insulation, slices and much more.

The IPC/​WHMA-A-620A provides helpful information on Wire Harness Manufacturing Terms and Definitions.

To learn more, click on this helpful link: Wire Harness Manufacturing Terms, Tools, and Tips of the Trade.

IPC Wire Harness Assembly Standards

Furthermore, this book offers guidance on the requirements and acceptance for cable and wire harness assemblies using Wire Harness Manufacturing Association Technical Guidelines.

The book explains proper methods of soldering and terminating wires. It also extensively covers electrical testing methods.

In addition, the book provides hundreds of helpful photos displaying clear details on acceptable results versus defective production.

If you or your company are new to producing wire harnesses, you will find the IPC/​WHMA-A-620A Requirements and Acceptance for Cable and Wire Harness Assemblies extremely beneficial.

IPC EDGE Offers Online Video Training

As a non-profit trade association, IPC now offers complete library of training videos for Wire Harness Manufacturers and companies performing Electronics Assembly.

Most importantly, this electronics assembly training video series is industry developed and award winning.

The videos offers operator-level training in areas such as Hand Soldering, Wire Harness Assembly, ESD Control, Rework and Repair as well as IPC-A-610 Criteria.

Furthermore, instructional videos from IPC serve as a powerful tool for basic training and orientation for new employees. Videos from the IPC EDGE learning portal can be viewed right on site at your facility or classroom.

Meanwhile, click on each link to a preview on the IPCS Wire Harness Assembly Process on YouTube:

56C - Wire Harness Assembly

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NY1Av3QXz24

58C - Wire Crimping

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9YoCvC_ii0

59C - Wire Preparation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P27eOLuK_5Y

62C - Connector Assembly

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nc_b7MS5QQc

152C - Terminology Training for Wire Assembly

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uozC9OR28pE&t=63s

167C - Coaxial Cable Assembly

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWyqDE2jn7Q

Finally, IPC EDGE offers other video training categories at IPC EDGE including the list below:

Electronics Assembly Inspection

ESD Fundamentals

Hand Soldering and Rework – PTH and SMT

Intro to Electronics Assembly (Pre-Employment Training)

Training & Reference Guides

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Feeling Less Antsy with ANSI: The American National Standards Institute

What comes to mind when you hear the word ANSI? Sounds like antsy, right? Consequently, the ANSI for today's discussion is based on the American National Standards Institute?

However if you are in manufacturing, odds are you find yourself familiar with both terms.

By the way, where did feeling "Antsy" derive from? Having "ants in your pants"?

Merriam-Webster  defines "antsy" as feeling nervous, fidgety, nervous and restless.

Yet, feeling antsy as a manufacturer certainly could be justified.

Especially on those crazy days where you feel like all you are doing is putting out fires.

For example, dealing with tariffs, increasing costs, hiring challenges, foreign competition as well as searching for reliable vendors all lead to potential stress and anxiety.

Anyway, let's discuss the other ANSI, the American National Standards Institute.

More importantly, this ANSI helps to reduce feeling antsy and stressed.

ANSI = American National Standards Institute

The American National Standards Institute offers a wealth of industry information.

ANSI encompasses safety standards, manufacturing and production standards, ISO Quality Management, production design standards and much more.

The American National Standards Institute serves:

As the voice of the U.S. standards and conformity assessment system, the American National Standards Institute empowers its members and constituents to strengthen the U.S. marketplace position in the global economy while helping to assure the safety and health of consumers and the protection of the environment.

The Institute oversees the creation, promulgation and use of thousands of norms and guidelines that directly impact businesses in nearly every sector: from acoustical devices to construction equipment, from dairy and livestock production to energy distribution, and many more. ANSI is also actively engaged in accreditation - assessing the competence of organizations determining conformance to standards.

In addition, the mission at ANSI includes the following:

"To enhance both the global competitiveness of U.S. business and the U.S. quality of life by promoting and facilitating voluntary consensus standards and conformity assessment systems, and safeguarding their integrity."

ANSI History

Founded on October 19, 1918, ANSI celebrated its 100 year anniversary last year. The agencies and organizations that founded ANSI:

IEEE = American Institute of Electrical Engineers

ASME = American Society of Mechanical Engineers

ASCE = American Society of Civil Engineers

AIME = American Institute of Mining and Metallurgical Engineers

ASTM = American Society for Testing and Materials

UES = United Engineering Society

Subsequently, all of these agencies also invited the U.S. Departments of War, Navy and Commerce to join them as founders of ANSI.

Check this video below to learn more about ANSI:

https://youtu.be/2EFJatfXSRg

ANSI Webstore

The ANSI webstore allows users to purchase industry standards on an individual basis or through subscriptions.

Additionally ANSI also offers a comprehensive collection of standard packages. For example, packages include quality management, risk management, road vehicles, machine safety, and much more.

ANSI Accreditation

ANSI offers accreditation services including product certification, environmental, and food safety. Accreditation ensures that goods and services meet essential requirements to provide trust as well as foster competitiveness.  

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Do You Need a Sherpa to Climb The Mountain of Entrepreneurship?

Do you have a Sherpa in your life?

In other words, a trusted guide to help you conquer the extreme challenges of life.

Especially for business owners and entrepreneurs.

In a recent blog post, we discussed the outstanding book authored by Alison Levine, "On the Edge: Leadership Lessons from Mount Everest and Other Extreme Environments".

Alison survived climbing Mount Everest. Twice!

To survive climbing Mount Everest, climbers commonly find success by teaming up with a Sherpa.

This fascinating article from the NY Times, Deliverance From 27,000 Feet, piqued (or should I say peaked) my interest on the courage and fearlessness of a Sherpa.

Also, the shear danger that they face assisting those on a quest to conquer Mt. Everest.

Check out this video below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhZJhon05HE

Need a Sherpa to Climb the Entrepreneurial Mountain?  

What was the tallest mountain before Mount Everest was discovered? The answer: Mount Everest. It just wasn’t discovered yet. My daughter loves to tell that joke.

Is climbing Mount Everest comparable to running a business? Or vice versa? Both are thrilling adventures. Each offers a strong sense of accomplishment. Once you reach the summit, you can celebrate. A life's dream accomplished. Jubilation!

Yet, once you reach the top, how the heck do you get back to the bottom? Oh, boy.

It takes skill, determination, a lot of money, guts, courage, as well as a bit of insanity. Actually, lots of insanity.

So yes, running a business must be just like climbing Mount Everest. Of coarse, this is coming from a guy who has never climbed an actual mountain. Ever.

Anyway, for some, climbing Mount Everest is a major "bucket list" accomplishment. A chance of a lifetime. Huge bragging rights. Thrill seekers reaching for the ultimate high.

It doesn’t get any higher than Mount Everest. Can a westerner accomplish this massive feat on their own?

A crucial component for the western adventurer to successfully reach the Mount Everest Summit is partnering with a highly experienced Sherpa.

Sherpa’s are commonly referenced as mountain guides who help westerners navigate the brutal terrain while reaching their goal.

However, you might find this interesting, the definition of a Sherpa according to LiveScience.com:

It's worth noting that the term "Sherpa" does not actually mean "mountain guide," as many people believe, but instead refers to an ancient ethnic community of some 154,000 members.

Who Is Your Sherpa?

So, who helps you navigate the treacherous terrain with running your business?  

Do you have a Sherpa in your life? Someone who has climbed the path prior to you? A person who knows and understands the dangers ahead?

Westerners may want or try to rush to the top. A good Sherpa just wants them to reach the top while returning safely. An expedition up Mount Everest can turn deadly in a moments notice. Even for the most experienced and trained Sherpa.

The Sherpa culture is synonymous with mountain guides due to living in the mountains of Nepal and the Everest region.

A  Sherpa helps carry necessary equipment, fix ropes. Despite hazards and risks, a Sherpa provides guidance to ensure a safe climb and descent.

Check out this cool article: The World’s Most Renowned Sherpa Talks Mt. Everest

A successful climb involves years of preparation and planning. Plotting out a route. Studying weather patterns.

Who has played a critical role in your success? In other words, who provides the necessary guidance for you to reach your summit?

A coach. Teacher. Mentor. Business partner. A boss. An ex-colleague. A vendor?

Do you rely on a key employee? Your accountant? Attorney? Business consultant?

Sources to Connect with Your Next Business Guide

Below includes a list of helpful suggestions if you find yourself seeking additional business guidance:

The Small Business Development Center

CPA

Chamber of Commerce

Trade Associations

LinkedIn

Friends & Family

Business Networking Associations

Wrapping It Up

Thank you for reading our post.

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Herb Kelleher: Entrepreneur, Maverick and Airline Icon

Just to kick things off, we LOVE Southwest Airlines! Not just as customers but also as a company to admire and emulate. Why? It's all about the company culture. How has Southwest separated themselves from the competition for all of these years? Actually, it starts with co-founder and airline icon Herb Kelleher.

A pioneering entrepreneur and fierce competitor, Kelleher co-founded Southwest which launched its first flight in 1971.

The chain smoking, Wild Turkey drinking business maverick created one of the most successful airlines in U.S. history.

Unfortunately, Herb Kelleher recently moved on to another life on January 3, 2019.

45 Straight Years of Profitability

From its humble beginning with 3 planes exclusively serving only Texas cities, Southwest then went on to enjoy 45 consecutive years of profitability.

That is a truly amazing track record. In an industry plagued by bankruptcies and failures, Southwest just simply makes money while having a blast doing so.

Check out this article from Inc: Why Southwest Has Been Profitable 45 Years in a Row

Kelleher focused not only on fulfilling a satisfying customer expedience, he created a cause. A cause dedicated to relentlessly keeping costs low while making flights affordable for average Americans.

The Southwest tagline: "You're Free to Fly Around the Country".

The Stanford Graduate School of Business interviews Herb Kelleher in the video below where he describes "Managing in Good Times and Bad":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxyC3Ywb9yc

Southwest Starts With Why

In a recent blog post, we discussed the New York Times Bestseller, "Start With Why" authored by Simon Sinek.

According to Sinek:

"In the early 1970s, only 15 percent of the traveling population traveled by air. At that rate, the market was small enough to scare off most would-be competitors to the big airlines. But Southwest wasn’t interested in competing against everyone else for 15 percent of the traveling population. Southwest cared about the other 85 percent. Back then, if you asked Southwest whom their competition was, they would have told you, “We compete against the car and the bus.” But what they meant was, “We’re the champion for the common man.” That was WHY they started the airline. That was their cause, their purpose, their reason for existing."

Cheap, consistent and fun!

Herb Kelleher instilled his wild sense of humor into the company culture.

Once, on Southwest flight, there were a large group of rowdy guys traveling to Las Vegas for a bachelor party (yes, I was part of the group. I was young then).

These gentlemen were goofing around and joking with one of the stewardesses. Towards the end of the flight, the stewardess was handing out glasses of water on a tray. She walked up to these group of men with a tray completely full of cups. When she approached these men, she stumbled and spilled the entire tray of cups on a couple of the guys.......the cups were empty!

We were absolutely rolling with laughter. This event defined the culture at Southwest created by Herb Kelleher.

As a company, Southwest personifies Herb Kelleher's attitude towards life and business.

Herb Kelleher preached, "Hire for attitude - train for skills".

Below includes a great video where Herb Kelleher describes "How Southwest Built Its Culture":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_CeFiUkV7s

The Herb Kelleher Leadership Style in the News

Below includes small portion of the endless number of outstanding articles that describe Herb Kelleher's leadership style:

Captain Marvel: How Southwest's Herb Kelleher Keeps Loyalty Sky High (1992 Profile) - Inc.com

The Legacy of Herb Kelleher, Cofounder of Southwest Airlines - Harvard Business Review

5 Lessons Herb Kelleher of Southwest Airlines Taught Me About Life and Leadership - Inc.com

Herb Kelleher: Manage in Good Times So You'll Do Well in the Bad Times - Stanford Graduate School of Business:

In One Plane Ride, the Co-Founder of Southwest Airlines Teaches Us a Powerful Leadership Lesson - Inc.com

How Herb's Heart Still Beats At Southwest - Forbes

Herb Kelleher, Fun-Loving Co-Founder of Southwest Airlines, Dies at 87 - Wall Street Journal

Herb Kelleher: The Arm Wrestler

Lastly, just to grasp the zaniness of Herb Kelleher, you must watch this video below where Herb arm wrestles another CEO.  

The "Malice in Dallas" took place in 1992 where Herb Kelleher arm wrestles Kurt Herwald, the CEO of Stevens Aviation over a marketing slogan, "plane smart".

This turned into a brilliant publicity stunt where both companies greatly benefited.

Check this out:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwU9m4oCtRE

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Horticultural Lighting: Growing Seasonal Produce All Year Long

What is Horticultural Lighting Used For?

Horticultural Lighting is becoming more and more common. Actually, we are blown away by the explosive growth and demand. However, what exactly is Horticultural lighting?

Farmers are not only using this lighting to expand their produce season in rural settings, they are also using new light technology in urban areas. Therefore, helping to provide fresh produce for residents all year long.

Greenhouses use Horticultural Lighting to grow different types of produce. Furthermore, these greenhouses include special LED lighting. This special lighting gives off the ideal amount of light to grow the desired vegetation. These greenhouses help farmers to continue their production all year and in any landscape.

Check out this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGcYApKfHuY

Why Rural Communities Need Greenhouses?

When most people think of rural living they think of rolling fields of vegetation and livestock. However, during the winter months, those same rolling fields are white with snow. Farmers still need to make a living during those months. Also, not all farms raise livestock. Greenhouses could supplement these farmers' income during the winter months. It is during these winter months that greenhouses become more necessary.

With the use of greenhouses with LED lighting, farmers can grow local produce all year long. These greenhouses can bring new opportunities for different crops. LED lighting is easily adjustable. Therefore, these greenhouses would allow for a new opportunity to grow produce that is not native to specific areas.

Why Cities Need Greenhouses?

Urban areas are not well known for having much farmland. This is due to the lack of available land. However, with horticultural greenhouses, there is no need for farmland. Larger cities will be able to supply fresh produce to their residences.

Along with the LED technology, there have been other advances. These advances are a part of the transition to more local fresh produce in urban settings. Container-Based Vertical Farming is one example of these advances.

Container-Based Vertical Farming

What is Container-Based Vertical Farming? This is when agriculturalists grow crops in repurposed shipping containers or buildings. These structures take the place of traditional fields. This type of farming is becoming more popular in urban areas. This is due to the lack of farmland. Also, this advancement in farming can create new opportunities for fresh produce in other areas.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhYcDKfgi7M

Grocery Store Uses

Grocery stores will also see benefits from this type of farming. They will be able to provide fresh produce all year long. This also means that there is no wait time for deliveries. Often produce can go bad before arriving at their destination. Therefore, there is less waste of products.

Another benefit is the growing time of products. In some cases, it is only a week or two. Once these onsite growing containers are implemented the more efficient and cost-effective they will be in keeping up with demands.

Helping the Less Fortunate

Another benefit of container growing is for shelters and food banks. Often times there is difficulty in receiving donations. Instead of being fully dependent on donations shelters and food banks can have their own growing containers. Onsite farming means that places would have a continuous supply of fresh produce year-round. These onsite containers will change the way that these facilities operate.

This addition can also become an opportunity for education. Therefore, more people can be taught about farming and these new technologies. Also, providing more job opportunities. These opportunities for education will change lives. Changing the need for these organizations.

More Information

Thank you for reading our post.

To learn more about Container-Based Vertical farming follow read this article LEDs Magazine.

For more information on LED Lighting check out our blogs Lighting with LEDs vs. Incandescent, The History of LEDs, and LED 101

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Snow Day Activities- FEI’s Top 10

Are you like us and live in an area where winter lasts ¾ of the year while summer lasts 3 days? Do you need a way to entertain yourself and your family when there is snow past your knees? We have some of the best Snow Day entertainment ideas right here for you! We have given each activity a Risk Level and a Fun Level. These may help you decide which is the right activity for you!

Sledding/ Tubing

Risk Level: 2 Fun Level: 9-10

Yes, we know everyone that has ever lived anywhere with snow knows about Sledding and Tubing. However, that is exactly why it needs to be on our list! You don’t mess with a classic family time event.

What are the dangers of Sledding? Why is its Risk Level a 2 and not a 1? Well, there is always the possibility of falling off of your sled. There is also the possibility of outside forces derailing you off of your sled. Like pets. Dogs love to chase things. Sleds are no different. However, if this does happen there is fluffy snow to catch you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJxPs_WvmOM

Building a Snowman

Risk Level: 3 Fun Level: 9

Do you want to build a Snowman? Ok, now you have that song stuck in your head. Apologies. Anyone with small children has been asked this question. As soon as there is snow on the ground Snowmen are usually one of the first thoughts. Even in the Southern states when they get more than an inch, the first thing people want to do is go out and create Frosty look-a-likes.

What're the risks of creating these round beings? Well, depending on how large you roll your snow, there is a risk of hurting yourself while lifting the pieces into place. Also, who hasn’t had the intent to build a snowman and it turned into a snowball fight? However, we are getting ahead of ourselves. Therefore, we will discuss the risks of that activity coming up.

Why didn’t we give this classic a full 10 for a fun level? Any parent who has had the intention of building a Snowman with their children knows that about halfway through the process the kids are no longer invested. They get cold and want to go inside. Also, they suddenly have to go to the bathroom. Therefore, you as the responsible parent, who thought this would be a great memory, are left finishing the Snowman alone. You could just leave a half-finished Snowman. However, every time you look outside and see two giant snowballs just sitting in your yard you will think about how you didn’t finish it.

Snowball Fights

Risk Level: 9-10 Fun Level: 7-8

Snowball fights can be some of the most fun kids or adults can have in winter. They can also be the most dangerous. In movies, you always see these light fluffy snowballs that explode in a puff on contact. Real life snowballs are not like this.

The best snowballs come from the perfect snow. Here we call it “packing snow”. Why packing snow? Due to its consistency packing snow holds together perfectly for creating snowballs and other snow creations. It is sturdier than the light fluffy snow that gets blown about by a strong breeze. However, because of this sturdy nature packing snow can cause some issues.

The risk of a snowball fight with the perfect packing snow is pretty high. Think about getting hit in the face with a solid ball of snow. That is what packing snow is like. Also, if you hold it in your hands a few extra seconds while smoothing it out it can start to solidify almost like ice. Not that anyone would ever intentionally throw an ice ball… especially not at their older siblings… especially not after they had just been pelted in the back of the head. No one would do that on purpose…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NgnWyVmAQE

Snow Day Maze

Risk level: 2 Fun Level: 7-8

A Snow Maze is the safer alternative to a Snow Fort. Unfortunately, Snow Forts have a tendency to collapse and can cause serious injury. However, a Snow Maze is just pathways and if they fall over you may just get snow in your boots.

You can get the entire family involved in this activity. You can all create different paths and follow them to reach each other. Also, you can each have your own style of path. One person can use a shovel. Another can just use their footprints. A more motivated person can crawl and create their pathways. A Snow Maze can lead to hours of outdoor fun creating paths and trying to track them to a final goal.

What are the risks of a Snow Maze? Like we mentioned before, you may get snow in your boots causing your feet to be wet and cold. Also, if you don’t have boots on and the snow is deep enough you will for sure end up with cold wet feet. Another risk is the actual creation of the paths. If you are using a shovel to dig out the paths you could pull a muscle just like if you are shoveling your driveway or sidewalk.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HU-XcBjtqE4

Snow Day Scavenger Hunt

Risk Level: 1 Fun Level: 7-8

What’s a better way to enjoy a snow day than with a Scavenger Hunt? Next time you are out at the store, pick up some low-priced toys that can withstand the cold and dampness of snow. You could also use toys you already have on hand. While the kids are napping or involved in other activities head outside and start hiding the toys in the snow. It’s like an egg hunt but in the snow. I know some people reading this are thinking we’ve had egg hunts in the snow where I live. If that is the case then you know how this works. However, the only thing to remember is to know your age group. If you have small children make sure their prizes are hiding so they can find them.

Another idea is to create a treasure map. It can include clues that need to be solved and, in the end, they receive one larger prize. Some ideas for a final prize could be cookies and hot cocoa. Another idea could be a movie and snacks. If you have older and younger kids this could be a good experience for them to work together.

*Sometimes the temperature is too cold to be playing outside. In those cases, you need to come up with something to entertain the family. This idea can also be easily transferred to be done indoors. The use of clues or a map is suggested for indoor scavenger hunts.*

Snow Angels

Risk Level: 2 Fun Level: 7-8

Another classic that made our list is Snow Angels. This is another activity that is fun for the entire family. Also, you can get creative. After the Snow Angels are made you can give them different personalities by drawing faces or coloring them.

How can you color a Snow Angel or any other snow creation? The easiest way is to take water in a spray bottle or other type of bottle with a squirt lid and mix in a few drops of food coloring. This mixture can be used on Snow Angels, Snowmen, or any other snow creature you and your family can create.

Why is there a risk level at all for Snow Angels? Have you ever tried to get up out of the snow while wearing layers, boots, and gloves? Many face plants have occurred. Also, without some help, the Snow Angels could get disfigured.

Snow Day Ice-cream

Risk Level: 2 Fun Level: 7 Tasty Level: 10+

Have you ever had Snow Day Ice-Cream? Now is the time to try it. With three ingredients and a little bit of time, you can enjoy some freshly made Snow Day Ice-Cream. This is a tasty treat for a snowy day.

What are the dangers? Brain Freeze. If you eat anything cold too fast you will get that flash of a headache that will travel through your entire body. It is recommended to take smaller bites to prevent this.

Why is the Fun Level at just over middle level? Everyone knows that eating Ice-Cream is the best part. However, with this recipe, you get the hands-on experience of making it as well. Some people enjoy that. Others, however, are left asking if it is ready to attack with their spoon yet.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRN-1rhbEV0

Snow Cones

Risk Level: 2 Fun Level: 8 Tasty Level: 9-10

Much like the above Snow Day Ice-Cream, Snow Cones use snow as their main ingredient. These simple treats have been a staple at carnivals and festivals during the summer. However, most do not think about having them in the winter. Why wait until summer to have a tasty chilly treat?

All you need to do is gather enough clean snow and put it into ice-cream cones or another cup. You can add your own food coloring or flavoring. Get creative by mixing different flavors or decorating with the food coloring. However, like the Snow Ice-Cream, there is the risk of brain freeze. Eat them slowly and enjoy!

Snow Day Bowling

Risk Level: 2 Fun Level: 8-9

On a cold snow day, you can create your own bowling lane outside in the snow! All you need to do is flatten down and smooth out, like ice, a level straight path. At the end of the path, you can line up used plastic bottles or other standing objects. If you are using plastic bottles you may want to put some water or loose change in them so they won’t blow over due to the wind. Take any ball that is heavy enough to knock over what you lined up at the end. You could even use snowballs! You can also create score charts just like the real things and come up with fun nicknames for everyone.

What are the risks of ice bowling? The same as regular bowling only with the added elements of snow and cold. If you are playing with highly competitive people there could be some frustrations just like the real game.

Ice Skating

Risk Level: 5 Fun Level: 9-10

Ice Skating can be a fun activity for the entire family. They have devices so that even young children are able to skate without fear of falling down. Depending on how talented you are you may be able to perform tricks or routines while on the ice. This can be both fun for yourself and for anyone who is there to see them.

The risks are medium for this activity due to the dangers of falling and getting injured. Anyone who has ever slipped on a patch of ice can tell you that it is not a fun experience. However, with Ice Skating you know you will be on the smooth surface and can be prepared to steady yourself. This can be a great opportunity to teach younger children a new activity and get some exercise as well. Also, afterward you can have hot cocoa which is always a crowd pleaser.

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Start With Inspiration: Did You See Katelyn Ohashi Perform?

When building a company culture, where do you start? Do you start with inspiration? A purpose? Can you get behind a cause and give everything you've got? More importantly, can you inspire your team as well as your customers to feel your passion? Share a belief in your cause?

In our last post, we provided a book review on the New York Times bestseller, "Start With Why". The amazing book authored by Simon Sinek reveals stories of companies and individuals who truly inspire.

This led to the question, does your WHY = Inspiration?

In other words, should our inspiration define our WHY?

If so, then we need to "Start With Inspiration". Start With Passion. Start with an undying belief in a cause.

The book "Start With Why" describes companies that inspire by revealing a strong purpose and belief.

Simon Sinek also offers examples of historical individuals that inspire such as Ronald Reagan, Martin Luther King and John F. Kennedy.

However, we don't necessarily need to look back in the deep past for sources of inspiration.

So far for 2019, what individuals do you feel "Start With Inspiration"?

To Start With Inspiration = Katelyn Ohashi

To "Start With Inspiration", look no further than college athletics.

Though Clemson's shellacking of Alabama was impressive in the NCAA Football National Championship , they did not win our vote for first place.

UCLA gymnast, Katelyn Ohashi earned our first place vote.

Katelyn kicked off 2019 with an amazing floor performance. By the way, she scored a PERFECT 10.

To prove our theory on "Start With Inspiration", feast your eyes on this masterpiece:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ic7RNS4Dfo

Katelyn Captured the Hearts of Millions of Americans

Katelyn absolutely crushes it!

What came to your mind watching her perform?

Playful

Confident

Style

Grace

Determination

Relentless

Moxie

Fun

Contagious enthusiasm

Perfection!

Tina Turner, Earth, Wind and Fire, the Jackson 5 and Janet Jackson for her song selection. Awesome playlist!

Wall Street Journal sports journalist, Jason Gay sums up Katelyn's perfect performance with this outstanding article:

A Must-See Gymnast, and the Meaning of Joy

"I think Ohashi’s routine is a radiant expression of what it means for a human being to be very, very good at something—and to want to share that with everyone. She projects a confidence that only great performers project, whether Olympic champions or concert pianists, that every eye is upon them. Instead of shirking from that, instead of getting rattled, Ohashi rushes toward the moment. The moment becomes her."  Jason Gay - Wall Street Journal

Likewise, check out all of the articles about Katelyn's performance from the numerous major publications below:

Inc Magazine: In 7 Words, Katelyn Ohashi Explains Why Her Gymnastics Routine Went Viral

New York Post: Katelyn Ohashi’s viral gymnastics moment came after long struggle

Sports Illustrated: UCLA Gymnast Katelyn Ohashi: 'I Am My Own Size and No Words or Stares Will Make Me Compromise'

Poeple.com: The Heartbreaking Story Behind Why UCLA Gymnast in Viral Video Isn't Vying for Spot on Olympic Team

New York Times: For Katelyn Ohashi, Viral Gymnastics Joy Was No Act

Los Angeles Times: UCLA’s Katelyn Ohashi rediscovers her joy of gymnastics and becomes an internet sensation

In addition, she even made an appearance on Good Morning America: https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/culture/video/viral-ucla-gymnast-katelyn-ohashi-speaks-gma-60440373

Applying Katelyn's Enthusiasm to Your Company  

As entrepreneurs is it possible to score a perfect 10 performance like Katelyn?

Inspire customers.

Motivate employees.

Also, build a team with enthusiasm like Katelyn's teammates at UCLA.

Did you notice her teammates in the background?

They are dancing, singing and cheering her on. Doing her moves with her while sharing her energy and enthusiasm.

Even though gymnastics is an individual performance, the UCLA Bruins demonstrate what it means to be a team.

Furthermore, Katelyn has overcome great odds to lay out that magical performance.

"Katelyn Ohashi Was the Best Gymnast in the World, Until She Wasn’t" is a video that describes her troubled career as a gymnast.

An amazing story!

Additionally in the video, legendary UCLA gymnastics coach,Valorie Kondos Field, talks about building a team based on passion and trust (at the 3:42 mark on this video below):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9b1KAoYz9s

To close, we extend a big THANK YOU to Katelyn for her poise, grace, determination and PERFECTION.

Katelyn defined how to "Start With Inspiration".

Most of all, we thank her for being her best self while having an absolute blast doing so.

Well Done Katelyn!

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Book Review: “Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action”

Start With Why!

Why should you start with WHY?

What does it actually mean to start with WHY anyway?

In his book "Start With Why", Simon Sinek pulls together powerful stories and examples of individuals who built wildly successful companies based on passion, vision and a belief in a cause.

"Now consider what a company is. A company is a culture. A group of people brought together around a common set of values and beliefs. It’s not products or services that bind a company together. It’s not size and might that make a company strong, it’s the culture—the strong sense of beliefs and values that everyone, from the CEO to the receptionist, all share. So the logic follows, the goal is not to hire people who simply have a skill set you need, the goal is to hire people who believe what you believe."

He also points out numerous individuals who completely changed our culture and mindset based on their passion and belief.

Let's take a look at this amazing book!

Start With Why

Simon Sinek authored the New York Times Bestseller "Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action" in 2009.

Sinek explains that plenty of companies know their WHAT and HOW.

Yet, it's the companies that understand their WHY who truly "get it".

More importantly, their customers understand their WHY too.

A mutual understanding of WHY between a company and customers creates a cult like following and raving fans:

"But when a company clearly communicates their WHY, what they believe, and we believe what they believe, then we will sometimes go to extraordinary lengths to include those products or brands in our lives. This is not because they are better, but because they become markers or symbols of the values and beliefs we hold dear. Those products and brands make us feel like we belong and we feel a kinship with others who buy the same things. Fan clubs, started by customers, are often formed without any help from the company itself. These people form communities, in person or online, not just to share their love of a product with others, but to be in the company of people like them. Their decisions have nothing to do with the company or its products; they have everything to do with the individuals themselves."

Apple & Southwest Start With Why

Examples of companies that "Start With Why" include Apple and Southwest Airlines.

Both companies were founded and led by dynamic individuals with Steve Jobs and Herb Kelleher respectively.

Sinek makes this interesting point regarding Apple:

"I spoke favorably of Apple long before I bought one. And I spoke disparagingly of a certain PC brand even though I’d been buying their products for years."

Herb Kelleher built Southwest into one of the most successful airlines in history. Southwest has 46 consecutive years of profitably to show for it.

Check out this article from Forbes on Herb Kelleher: 20 Reasons Why Herb Kelleher Was One Of The Most Beloved Leaders Of Our Time

Harley-Davidson Raving Fans

Sinek points out another excellent corporate example with Harley-Davidson.

Over the years, Harley-Davidson built a cult like following with raving fans as customers.

Sinek points out that fans tattoo the Harley-Davidson logo on their bodies. Some don't even own a Harley.

That's a powerful brand when an individual tattoo's a company logo, yet in some cases they are not even a customer:

"They've tattooed corporate logo on their skin. Some of them don’t even own the product! Why would rational people tattoo a corporate logo on their bodies? The reason is simple. After years of Harley being crystal clear about what they believe, after years of being disciplined about a set of values and guiding principles and after years of being doggedly consistent about everything they say and do, their logo has become a symbol. It no longer simply identifies a company and its products; it identifies a belief."

Martin Luther King

To Start With Why begins with an individual who shares a grand vision or a DREAM.

Sinek points out an incredibly powerful example with Martin Luther King.

Yesterday, the United States celebrated one of the greatest leaders in our history with Martin Luther King Day.

Think about this for a second.

250,000 attended the civil rights rally in August of 1963 when Martin Luther King delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech.

This took place with no internet. No email. People were not chatting on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to rally this large crowd.

That's amazing!

In case you need some inspiration, please click below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vP4iY1TtS3s

Simon Sinek's Ted Talk  

If you find yourself short on time and prefer cliff notes, check out the Ted Talk by Simon Sinek explaining his theory on Start With Why.

As of this post, Simon Sinek's famous Ted Talk boasts over 42 million views.

The Ted Talk simply offers a snap shot of his brilliant theory of Start With Why (However, the book goes into much greater detail with amazing examples of leadership).

In case you have not watched the wildly popular Ted Talk by Simon Sinek, please click below:

https://www.ted.com/talks/simon_sinek_how_great_leaders_inspire_action?language=en

In conclusion, we strongly recommend downloading or picking up a copy of this phenomenal book.

"Start With Why" explains that successful leaders dedicate themselves to sharing their true purpose and belief.

It will leave you thinking about your WHY as well as wondering if your clearly communicate your WHY to your own team and customers.

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Book Review: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable

In a recent post, we discussed creating a team and culture based around reliability. Reliability leads to consistency, stability, quality and most of all, happy customers. To follow up on this important topic, today we explore an incredible business book, "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable" by Patrick Lencioni.

"The Five Dysfunctions of a Team"

"The Five Dysfunctions of a Team" is truly an amazing book! A quick read with an extremely powerful message:

"It is teamwork that remains the ultimate competitive advantage, both because it is so powerful and so rare. A friend of mine, the founder of a company that grew to a billion dollars in annual revenue, best expressed the power of teamwork when he once told me, “If you could get all the people in an organization rowing in the same direction, you could dominate any industry, in any market, against any competition, at any time.”

Check out this video from Patrick Lencioni explaining "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCxct4CR-To

Dysfunction at DecisionTech

Patrick Lencioni does an outstanding job by combining theory and fiction. "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team" tells the story of a Silicon Valley company, DecisionTech, which is past the start up stage and entering year 2.

Unfortunately, the company finds itself severely struggling.

It lags behind the competition in spite of possessing better funding.

The company also boasts superior technology along with a more talented team of 150 employees.

Yet, morale runs extremely low. In addition, company goals and potential are not being met.

Thus the story describes the "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team".

The founder and CEO decides to take a demotion allowing new leadership to right the ship.

In response, the board of directors hires a new CEO, Kathryn, who hails from manufacturing.

As a tech industry outsider, Kathryn faces a massive challenge to turn the company around.

First, Kathryn immediately diagnoses the ailments of DecisionTech and puts an action plan in place to build the team.

However, Kathryn was not fully aware of how deep the dysfunction ran at DecisionTech.

"And that is where the rarity of teamwork comes into play. For all the attention that it has received over the years from scholars, coaches, teachers, and the media, teamwork is as elusive as it has ever been within most organizations. The fact remains that teams, because they are made up of imperfect human beings, are inherently dysfunctional."

She then dives in to explain to her executive team "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team."

Identifying The Five Dysfunctions of a Team

According to Patrick Lencioni, "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team" consist of:

Absence of Trust

“Remember, teamwork begins by building trust. And the only way to do that is to overcome our need for invulnerability.”

Fear of Conflict

"If we don't trust one another, then we aren't going to engage in open, constructive, ideological conflict. And we'll just continue to preserve a sense of artificial harmony."

Lack of Commitment

"...committing to a plan or a decision and getting everyone to clearly buy in to it. That is why conflict is so important."

Avoidance of Accountability

"The enemy of accountability is ambiguity, and even when a team has initially committed to a plan or a set of behavioral standards, it is important to keep those agreements"

Inattention to Results

"As obvious as this dysfunction might seem at first glance, and as clear as it is that it must be avoided, it is important to note that many teams are simply not results focused. They do not live and breathe in order to achieve meaningful objectives, but rather merely to exist or survive. Unfortunately for these groups, no amount of trust, conflict, commitment, or accountability can compensate for a lack of desire to win."

Lastly, Lencioni does an amazing job creating a page turning story explaining how to correct "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team". For that reason, we strongly recommend downloading or picking up a copy today.

The Table Group

Author Patrick Lencioni founded of The Table Group, a consulting firm dedicated to creating Organizational Health.  Lencioni also authored 11 books which have sold over 5 million copies. In addition, his books have been translated into more than 30 languages.

The Wall Street Journal called Lencioni "one of the most in demand speakers in America." Consequently, Lencioni writes articles for numerous publications including Harvard Business Review, Inc., Fortune, Fast Company, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal and BusinessWeek.

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Concert Lighting and Its Effect on the Concert Experience

There are many things that affect a concert experience. However, one thing in particular can affect everything from the mood of the audience to how interactive they feel with the artists on stage. Concert lighting is one of the most important things when setting up a concert experience. Not only does lighting determine what the audience is seeing but also the connection the audience feels they have with the artists on stage.

Concert Lighting and the Stage

Anyone that has ever had a concert experience knows that it is not just about the music. Today's technology allows anyone to have their favorite songs at their fingertips. So, what makes going to a concert an actual experience? The lighting of course. Furthermore, there are so many different lighting effects that are used during shows.

Think about the differences between a small karaoke night at your favorite coffee house compared to a sold-out concert in a stadium that holds thousands. Not only is the overall atmosphere completely different but the stages are complete opposites. The coffee house may have a single light bar with a few different LED bulbs that are under the control of a single button. The sold-out stadium, however, would have a grander setup.

LED Lighting's Addition to the Music World

LED lighting has made extravagant concert lighting more of a reality. Lighting directors are taking advantage of the different available LED colors to represent the band's specific genre and taste. In addition to the colors LED lighting offers an alternative to other lights that give off large amounts of heat. Another perk of LED lights in a concert setting is the new advancements in cell phone apps and wristbands.

There are now bands that will advertise their shows while including a link to a special app that they have designed for their audience. These apps help replace the lighters that concert goers would use during shows. Additionally, these apps have lighting that goes along with the rhythm of specific songs.

Similarly, there are some bands that will provide wristbands at their concerts. Within these bands are small LED lights that are programmed to react to certain songs or notes that are played. Therefore, these wristbands help the audience to feel like they are more included in the concert experience. They no longer feel like they are just witnesses to the bands on stage but that they are also a part of the show.

For example, click the video below from a Coldplay concert where LED wristbands were used:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIl1w_LV5ok

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Build a Team and Culture Dedicated to Reliability

Reliability. What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word reliability?

Especially when dealing with a new vendor or sales person who declares themselves reliable?

The Webster Definition of "Reliability" states:  

1: the quality or state of being reliable

2: the extent to which an experiment, test, or measuring procedure yields the same results on repeated trials

re-LIABILITY

Reliability typically means quality, efficiency as well as strong customer satisfaction.

However, here is a wacky thought.

Did you ever notice that reliability is spelled with LIABILITY?

Seems odd, right?

If you reload something, you are loading it again.

When you rework something, you are working on it....again. A second time.

Reinstate, reinstall and restore are all synonymous with returning to power.

Yet, if you claim that a company strength includes reliability, are you saying that you are a liability.....again?

Just a random observation.

Reliability vs Uncertainty

Anyway, in this outstanding article from the Harvard Business Review, Sense and Reliability, the author uses terms such as stable, secure and predictable to describe reliability.

Other terms that come to mind include consistent, dependable, and predictable. Reliability is a quality measure of your products and services.

Becoming unreliable creates uncertainty. Like that friend or relative that backs out on you at the last minute. All the time.

Understandably, customers typically do not appreciate uncertainty. The same goes for most markets.

For example, have you been following the stock market lately? The stock market has been fluctuating on a wild ride due to the uncertainty with foreign trade and tariffs. Actually, do yourself a favor and ignore your retirement statements during these turbulent times.  Check out this article: "For the 2019 economic outlook, don’t watch the stock market, watch the Fed".

At any rate, when it comes to companies that we heavily rely on for certain services, the more boring the better.

Boring = Reliability

We could state that boring = reliability.

Do you prefer boring and modest stock market growth as opposed to the wild ride as of late?

Over the long term, the results typically wind up the same. We just endure stress and heartache during rough patches to offset periods with steady stock market growth. Especially since 2008.

Another example, when you grab a coffee at your favorite spot, you expect it quick with the same quality as the day, week and month before.

Otherwise, you are taking your business elsewhere. Coffee lovers mean serious business. A bad cup of coffee for coffee addicts can ruin an entire day.

A timely and pleasant cup of coffee saves the day allowing you to focus on tasks at hand.

Thus, Boring = Reliability.

Is Your Business Boring?

Is your company boring?

In other words, is your company reliable, stable, and predictable?

How do your customers rate your reliability?

Do you deliver quality and consistency?

It takes years of practice to become good enough that you become "boring", thus reliable.

Yet, being boring does not equate to avoiding risks.

As entrepreneurs, diversifying and pursuing growth opportunities are essential for success.

Perfecting a process and then scaling that process opens the door for healthy growth while maintaining your reputation of reliability.

The goal? Create customer relationships so stable and secure that your customers view you like their utility company.

Utilities & Reliability

Think about the number of services in our lives that we completely take for granted.

Yet, when one of these services fails, all hell breaks loose.

For example, how on earth did we ever survive without the internet?

Just sounds primitive, right?

No social media, email, eCommerce or any of your favorite websites.

When the internet goes down, seems like our lives come to a screeching halt.

No internet? Now what should we do?

We also take other basic utilities for granted.

It's great when running water and electricity work properly.

Ever experience a single evening without water or electricity? It really goes beyond an inconvenience. Right?

Serving customer needs as seamlessly as the internet, running water and electricity seems like a successful strategy.

Just ALWAYS be prepared for your customer to flip the switch or turn the nozzle. It's then showtime!

However, that's much easier said than done though.

Striving for Reliability

Stay in your lane. Focus on what you do best. When you branch out of your lane to diversify and seek new opportunities, exhaust your due diligence. Take risks that make sense and more importantly, make cents.

Lastly, below includes several suggestions to help build a culture of reliability:

Commit to continuous improvement

Embrace change and new technology

Listen and learn

Pay close attention to customer feedback

Take corrective actions

Keep a close eye on cash flow and profitability

Educate

Train

Dedicate your team to satisfying customer demands

How important is it to build a team and culture dedicated to customer satisfaction and reliability? Check this out.

The classic business book "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable" by Patrick M. Lencioni opens with these words of wisdom:

"Not finance - Not strategy - Not technology. It is teamwork that remains the ultimate competitive advantage, both because it is so powerful and so rare. A friend of mine, the founder of a company that grew to a billion dollars in annual revenue, best expressed the power of teamwork when he once told me, “If you could get all the people in an organization rowing in the same direction, you could dominate any industry, in any market, against any competition, at any time.”

What works best for your company in building a culture of reliability?

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Helpful Suggestions to "Give Value First"

When looking for a new vendor, do you seek companies that "Give Value First"?

Partnering with the right vendor delivers powerful results for your company.

Improves productivity

Increases profitability

Enhances quality

However, selecting the wrong vendor typically leads to frustration and disappointment. Possibly even worse.

Think back to the reasons that contributed to you selecting your vendors in the beginning of the relationship?

How did you find them in the first place? Online search? Through word of mouth? A sales rep?

What factors contributed to you selecting them as a vendor?

So what separates your vendors from their competition?

Price? Quality? Delivery times? Reliability? Comfort?

More importantly, what separates you from your competition?

Why do customers partner with you?

Give Value First

To turn it around, does your company "Give Value First"?

Many companies talk about "added value". Wouldn't it be great if they would "Give Value First", instead of adding it on later?

Here is a fantastic video from sales guru and acclaimed author, Jeffrey Gitomer sharing his thoughts on "Give Value First":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhwydbNTTso

Teaming Up With The Experts

However, "Give Value First" is all about building business relationships based on trust.

For example, hate doing your own taxes? Team up with a trustworthy and reliable accountant.

Furthermore, the same can be said for an attorney, banker and insurance representative. In each case, you hire professionals that provide the expertise necessary to prevent you from harms way.

You hire these professionals respectively to keep you out of trouble with taxes, legal issues, cash accessibility and other various liabilities such as accidents or property damage.

Partnering with a credible and trustworthy professional lends tremendous benefits to your business.

In other words, these professionals contribute to your profitability and success. Hopefully.

Think back to the factors that led you to selecting professionals that each play a crucial role in your business.

At some point in the early stages, each professional delivered value to you consummating that relationship.

Custom Manufacturers Providing Value

As a custom manufacturer, new customers come to all of us for our experience and expertise.

A potential customer approaches a new vendor with a level of expectations.

Expectations that the tasks will be performed with the highest quality. In addition, offering the most competitive prices possible. Delivering on time serves as another critical factor as well.

However, all manufacturers like to claim high quality, competitive prices, and on-time delivery. Otherwise, we would all go be out of business. Right?

A customer approaches a custom manufacturer to tackle tasks that the company is unable to perform.

So how do we separate ourselves from the rest of the pack?

Supply Chain Defined

What is your customer's primary concern? Typically it is THEIR customer.

I recently heard a great analogy on how the supply chain works.

At a workshop, the speaker asked everyone to turn to their right. Then asked, what do you see?

The answer? The back of the head of the person to the right.

The speaker noted that is exactly how a supply chain works.

Everyone is looking down stream towards THEIR customer.

Companies are so busy taking care of their customers that they don't want to have to look backward and worry about you as the vendor.

It's all about the WIIFM = "What's in it for me".

As manufacturers, how can we strive to improve our competitive edge?

How can we go above and beyond quality, price and on-time delivery?

How can we dedicate ourselves to "Give Value First"?

For example, exceeding customer expectations allows the opportunity to establish loyal customer relationships.

Solve their problems. Help them exploit opportunities.

Make the customer a hero with THEIR customer and THEIR boss.

This link includes an excellent article from Forbes on "Value-First Advertising: How To Give To Consumers While Selling".

Inc.com offers this fantastic piece on "Give Value First": "How Can I Help? Why 'Adding Value First' Is the Winning Formula for Growth".

Steps to "Give Value First"

What steps can you take to "Give Value First"?

Below includes a list of suggestions to help:

Blog on relevant topics

Provide technical information on your website about your products or services

Attack your keywords on Google so customers easily find your website

Shorten the RFQ process to reduce wait times

Educate - offer product white papers or tips on best practices

Post helpful videos and how to's

Offer free online tools that help customers make buying decisions

Help make connections for your customers with other non-competitive vendors or suppliers

Answer questions

Refer a book or resource

Dedicating ourselves to each customer's profitability and success is a winning formula.

What value propositions work best for you and your company?

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U.S. Government Publishing Office: Outstanding Resource for Businesses

In a recent blog, we discussed an extremely hot topic: tariffs. However, we are still nursing a blog hangover from that one. After all, you need a PhD in Economics to fully understand everything going on with tariffs these days, right? Well, while researching tariffs, the United States Government Publishing Office (GPO) website hit our radar (Click here).

U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO)

Let's face it, small business owners need help while encountering daily challenges. Especially when it comes to figuring out new government policy. As an American manufacturer trying to gain a clear understanding on tariffs certainly added to the list of challenges this year.

Additionally, researching government related issues and topics demand time and energy.

Therefore, discovering a website that provides helpful and timely information is priceless.

For example, the U.S. Government Publishing Office offers a wealth of helpful information for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Below includes a list of activities and responsibilities performed by the GPO:

Produce and distribute information products and services for all three branches of the Federal Government, including U.S. passports for the Department of State as well as the official publications of Congress, the White House, and other Federal agencies in digital and print formats.

Provide for permanent public access to Federal Government information at no charge through the Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) and govinfo.

Operate distribution centers in Laurel, MD and Pueblo, CO that fulfill orders for Government publications.

Check out this great video (take note of the enormous amount of paper in front of each employee during the pre-computer age):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ebYB-q-N_E

Mission of the U.S. Government Publishing Office

According to the U.S. Government Publishing Office, the mission goes as follows:

Keeping America Informed as the official, digital, and secure source for producing, preserving, and distributing official Federal Government publications and information products for Congress, Federal agencies, and the American public.

History of the U.S. Government Publishing Office

In addition, the history of the U.S. Government Publishing Office dates back nearly 160 years:

Created by Congress in June 1860, the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO) began operation on March 4, 1861 with 350 employees. Occupying the corner of North Capitol and H Streets from its inception, GPO continues to adopt the most efficient and cost-effective production methods of delivering authentic and secure government documents and products to the American public.

U.S. Government Bookstore

One of the many assets that the Government Publishing Office offers includes the U.S. Government Bookstore. The U.S. Government Bookstore delivers a wide selection of government publications with books based on agency, topic and collection.

First, you can browse books on the U.S. Government Bookstore website by "Topic". For example, the extensive list of topics includes Budget & the Economy, Business & Finance, Laws & Regulations, Science & Technology and much more.

In addition, you can also browse the website by "Government Agency". The website offers an extensive list of agencies such as Congress & Legislative Branch, Judicial Branch & Federal Courts and The White House & Executive Office of the President. Other agencies include federal government agencies such as Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Energy, Interior, Labor, Treasury and much more.

Consequently, you can browse under the topic "Collections" as well. This list includes: New Releases, Best Sellers, eBooks, Subscriptions & Magazines and much more.

Basically any government based periodical resides on the U.S. Government Bookstore.

Free Shipping

The Government Bookstore also offers free shipping on all products. Click below for more details:

https://bookstore.gpo.gov/customer-service/usa-shipping

Government Book Talk Blog

While checking out the Government Publishing Office website, we also discovered the Government Book Talk blog.

In particular, Government Book Talk offers excellent articles and helpful information for business owners and entrepreneurs.

The goal of the GPO blog, Government Book Talk!, states the following:

".....to raise the profile of some of the best publications from the Federal Government, past and present.  We’ll be reviewing new and popular publications, providing information about new publications in the offing, and talking about some out-of-print classics. The goal is to spotlight the amazing variety of Government publications and their impact on ourselves and our world – and have fun while doing it."

Hence, the Government Book Talk Blog offers a number of outstanding topics. The post that introduced our team to the Government Book Talk blog was of course based on tariffs. Check out this great post:

What are tariffs and why are they important to U.S. citizens?

In addition, the list below includes other interesting blog posts from Government Book Talk blog:

The Premier Handbook for Anyone Contributing to the Rehabilitation of America’s Wounded Warriors

Go Vote: Understanding and Participating In United States Elections

Resources for Safe Schools Week

Educate Yourself about Radiation Protection Regulations with Historical Research from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission

On the Anniversary of the British Surrender at Yorktown, Read This Book

Exporting Made Simple

Wrapping It Up

Thank you for reading our post on the Government Publishing Office and the Government Book Talk Blog.

Finally, to learn more about Falconer Electronics, check out these helpful links below:

Wire Harness Manufacturing Terms, Tools, and Tips of the Trade

Build Your Business Tips: Selecting a Wire Harness Manufacturer

Ground Straps: What Are They And What Are They Used For?

Check out the Ground Strap Express

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E-Stewards: A Global Leader in Promoting Safe & Healthy Electronics Recycling

This post continues our blog series on recycling. In particular, the growing need for electronics recycling. Exploring electronics recycling led us to e-Stewards, a global leader in promoting safe and healthy electronics recycling. Click here to view the company website.

The e-Stewards Standard

Headquartered in downtown Seattle, e-Stewards targets companies serving the electronics recycling industry. A company becomes certified by a third party certifying body once the company passes the rigorous audit.

The e-Stewards Standard addresses the following:

Protects customers from data breach

Prevents toxic e-waste

Helps protect the environment and human health

Child labor

Fire prevention

International law

The company mission states:

The e-Stewards initiative defines and promotes responsible electronics reuse and recycling best practices worldwide.

The e-Stewards Standard combines 14001 and R2 (Responsible Recycling) prohibiting e-waste from being disposed in landfills and incinerators. The standard also requires full compliance with global hazardous waste treaties for the exporting and importing of electronics.

Most importantly, the e-Stewards certification offers the peace of mind to businesses and consumers alike that the certified recycling company institutes practices of integrity:

e-Stewards is a global team of individuals, institutions, businesses, non-profit organizations, and governmental agencies upholding a safe, ethical, and globally responsible standard for e-waste recycling and refurbishment. We stop the export of illegal hazardous e-waste to developing nations and create a safe, green, and just world through sharing and using the principled and practical standard for electronics recycling and reuse.

Basel Action Network

The roots of e-Stewards trace to the the Basel Action Network (BAN) which namesake derives from the 1989 United Nations Basel Convention. The BAN mission includes the following:

In 2003, the Basel Action Network, a nonprofit dedicated to turning back the tide of toxins and waste to developing nations, launched the e-Stewards Pledge program. Over forty qualified electronics recyclers with one hundred locations across the US and Canada pledged to use only globally responsible, safe means to process electronic waste, more widely known as e-waste. BAN’s e-Stewards Pledge was the only program in North America to make real progress in establishing and ensuring e-waste recycling best practices for toxic materials.

In addition, e-Stewards addresses and identifies the main culprits that cause environmental concerns with electronics recycling or e-waste. Adhering to the foundation of the 1989 United Nations Basel Convention of restricting hazardous and toxic material.

For example, revealing the risks and challenges with CRT tubes:

E-waste contains toxic metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium as well as toxic organic chemicals such as brominated flame retardants. Old style cathode-ray-tube (CRT) computer monitors can contain up to 7 pounds of lead in the CRT tubes. In addition and even more dangerous, are the toxic phosphor compound coatings inside the tube. Most circuit boards, found in virtually all e-waste, still contain toxic lead-tin solders, toxic beryllium and  persistent polluting brominated flame retardants.

Finally, check out this link which titled "Who Gets Stepped On"  which includes an interesting video.

Also, here is another video on electronics recycling best practices from 60 Minutes on CBS:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbqLYC-YOs0

Wrapping It Up

Thank you for reading our post. Hopefully you found this information helpful when selecting a electronics recycling firm.

[falconerelectronics]

Struggling to Understand Tariffs? Check Out These Helpful Websites

Sometimes a word needs repeating several times to emphasize a point. For example, our topic today covers Tariffs, Tariffs, Tariffs!

Another example of a repeating a word for emphasis includes the real estate war cry, "location, location location".

Of course, our personal favorite: "Marcia, Marcia, Marcia!" (However, you needed to have grown up in the 70's to get this one).

What Are Tariffs?

Anyway, tariffs lead today's blog discussion.

First of all, let's start out with the definition of a tariff.

We turn to our friends at Inc.com for a definition of a tariff:

"A tariff is a tax or duty imposed by one nation on the imported goods or services of another nation. Tariffs are a political tool that have been used throughout history to control the amount of imports that flow into a country and to determine which nations will be granted the most favorable trading conditions. High tariffs create protectionism, shielding a domestic industry's products against foreign competition. High tariffs usually reduce the importation of a given product because the high tariff leads to a high price for the customers of that product."

Government Resources to Navigate Tariffs

Tariffs certainly rose to the forefront as an extremely hot topic this year.

Yet, if you are in manufacturing, odds are your business has been impacted one way or another due to tariffs.

Especially if you purchase global parts or components.

So what has your experience been so far this year facing new tariffs?

Are tariffs having a positive impact and helping your business? Allowing you to better compete with cheap imports as intended?

On the other hand, are tariffs just causing you grief and frustration?

Tariffs seem to have caused a great deal of uncertainty this year.

For example, we found our vendors struggled this year with quoting prices due to uncertainty with tariffs. This made it difficult for our team to quickly respond to quote requests while we in turn waited for vendor responses. Some vendors raised prices in advance of the tariffs actually even taking place.

Our goal serving as an American manufacturer is to provide every tool and resource possible to help our customers better compete and reach success.

Well, if you find it challenging to follow all of the changes with tariffs, the intention of this blog is to offer some assistance.

We decided to put together a number of websites to help you navigate these changes.

Below includes a list of government agencies and websites that offer helpful information on tariffs.

The Small Business Administration (SBA)

The Small Business Administration serves as a federal government agency that helps small businesses. The mission of the SBA:

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) was created in 1953 as an independent agency of the federal government to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns, to preserve free competitive enterprise and to maintain and strengthen the overall economy of our nation.

The SBA defines tariffs as:

Tariffs are taxes, levies, or duties on a particular category of imports. These fees are charged as a percentage of the price of an imported good paid for by a U.S. buyer. These charges are collected by U.S. Custom and Border Protection agents at all U.S. ports of entry.

The SBA also offers this blog post below with helpful information on tariffs:

What Small Businesses Should Know About Tariffs

Federal Register

Another resource for information on tariffs includes the Federal Register which is The Daily Journal of the U.S. Government.

This link from June 20, 2018, provides information on the new tariffs from the Office of the United States Trade Representative:

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2018/06/20/2018-13248/notice-of-action-and-request-for-public-comment-concerning-proposed-determination-of-action-pursuant

Here is a summary from that post regarding new tariffs for 2018:

The U.S. Trade Representative (Trade Representative) has determined that appropriate action in this investigation includes the imposition of an additional ad valorem duty of 25 percent on products from China classified in the subheadings of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) set out in Annex A of this notice. The Trade Representative has further determined to establish a process by which U.S. stakeholders may request that particular products classified within a covered tariff subheading in Annex A be excluded from these additional duties. Further, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is seeking public comment and will hold a public hearing regarding a proposed additional action in this investigation. The proposed additional action is the imposition of an ad valorem duty of 25 percent on products of China classified in the HTSUS subheadings set out in Annex C of this notice.

Office of the United States Trade Representative

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative also provides valuable information.

According to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) website:

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is an agency of more than 200 committed professionals with decades of specialized experience in trade issues and regions of the world:

"We negotiate directly with foreign governments to create trade agreements, to resolve disputes, and to participate in global trade policy organizations. We also meet with governments, with business groups, with legislators and with public interest groups to gather input on trade issues and to discuss the President's trade policy positions."

In addition, this link below shares the press release from the USTR from September 2018 regarding tariffs on Chinese imports:

USTR Finalizes Tariffs on $200 Billion of Chinese Imports in Response to China’s Unfair Trade Practices

International Trade Association

The International Trade Administration (ITA) serves as another source for information on tariffs:

The International Trade Administration (ITA) strengthens the competitiveness of U.S. industry, promotes trade and investment, and ensures fair trade through the rigorous enforcement of our trade laws and agreements.  ITA works to improve the global business environment and helps U.S. organizations compete at home and abroad.

The ITA also offers a blog, Tradeology, which provides helpful information. For example, Tradeology  has a category called "Trade Policy". ITA Blog posts include:

International Intellectual Property Day

What Small Businesses Should Know About Businesses

Export.gov

Export.gov also offers helpful information on tariffs. The Export.gov website states:

Export.gov helps U.S. companies plan, develop and execute international sales strategies necessary to succeed in today's global marketplace. Developed by international trade specialists and economists, here you will find trusted market intelligence, practical advice and business tools to help you understand how to export, connect with foreign buyers, and expand operations in new markets.

In addition, the Export.gov website offers information on tariffs and import fees with this link:

https://2016.export.gov/logistics/eg_main_018130.asp

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CSP)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CSP) serves to protect U.S. borders as well as enforces U.S trade laws.

In addition, the CSP provides information on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (check link below):

Harmonized Tariff Schedule - Determining duty rates

United States International Trade Commission

The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) also offers helpful information. The USITC is responsible for publishing the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS); the U.S. Customs Service is responsible for administering the tariff and processing import entries.

Additionally, this link from the USITC Tariff Database offers information on "Tariffs: Get past, current, and future U.S. tariff rates in multiple formats".

U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO)

While researching tariffs, we found another excellent resource, the U.S. Government Publishing Office's (GPO) Government. The GPO website states:

About the agency: GPO opened its doors over 150 years ago on March 4, 1861, and is part of the legislative branch of the federal government.  GPO employees have been Keeping America Informed on the documents of our democracy, in both printed and electronic form.  The agency produces the Congressional Record, Federal Register, the nation’s passports, and other Federal Government documents. It also maintains the Federal Depository Library Program to ensure public libraries nationwide have access to Federal published information.

In particular, the GPO offers an extremely helpful blog called Government Book Talk:

Welcome to the U.S. Government Publishing Office’s (GPO) Government Book Talk! Our goal is to raise the profile of some of the best publications from the Federal Government, past and present.  We’ll be reviewing new and popular publications, providing information about new publications in the offing, and talking about some out-of-print classics. The goal is to spotlight the amazing variety of Government publications and their impact on ourselves and our world – and have fun while doing it.

For example, the GPO Government Book Talk offers two extremely helpful posts:

What Are Tariffs and Why Are They Important to U.S. Citizens?

Exporting Made Simple

Wrapping It Up

Thank you for reading our post on Tariffs. Hopefully this list of government websites offer some assistance while navigating information of tariffs.

[falconerelectronics]

Electronics Recycling Resources: Finding Solutions for E-waste

Last week we posted a blog on the Benefits of Recycling. As an electronics manufacturer, recycling plays an extremely important role in operations. Especially as the demand for electronics recycling continues to dramatically increase. Small business owners and consumers need reliable outlets for e-waste solutions. Below we explore several resourceful options.

Increasing Demand for Electronics Recycling

The use of computers and mobile devices continues to grow exponentially.

According to an article posted on the U.S. Census Bureau, reports show "a stunning increase in reported mobile broadband usage" within the U.S.

For example, 2016 data revealed that two-thirds of Americans access the internet through mobile devices.

Seems like that number must be much higher by now. It is hard to image anyone without a mobile device these days.

The Pew Research Center also reported that 84% of adults in the U.S. say their household possess a smart phone. Furthermore, 80% say they own a desktop or laptop computer.

Combine this with additional household electronic appliances such as washers, dryers, dish washers, and microwaves. In addition, throw in all of the big-screen TVs.

The National Conference of State Legislatures claim that the average household contains 24 electronic products.

To summarize, that's a long list of electronics. Millions upon millions.

When all of these devices become unwanted and obsolete, then what?

Where do all of these electronics end up?

E-Waste Concerns

With these staggering household numbers of electronics ownership, just think of the amount of electronics at the average small business. Especially with the increasing reliance on electronics to run a business.

Electronic waste or e-waste is a growing concern for all small business owners.

How is e-waste defined? We turn to the e-waste experts at e-Stewards, an e-waste certification agency located in Seattle for a definition.

E-waste is defined by e-Stewards as the following:

E-waste stands for electronic waste, and is what your company, or institution generates when you replace or otherwise need to dispose of electronic assets such as phones, tablets, servers, monitors, copiers, computers, printers, fax machines, etc.

Growing e-waste concerns places a responsibility on every professional office and small business owner to figure out what to do with electronics once no longer useful.

Electronics Recycling Resources

So, what are small business to do when it comes to electronics recycling?

Many times a small business either just doesn't possess the necessary information or education on proper recycling practices. In other cases, employees get extremely busy. Recycling just isn't front of mind.

Designate an internal leader to take charge of your recycling efforts.

Individuals with a passion for the environment and recycling serves well as an internal champion.

Also, take advantage of the many resources available for electronics recycling at your organization.

The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) offers helpful information of recycling options for electronics such as computers and devices: Click here. At the bottom of the page shows a list businesses that accept electronics for recycling.

For example, Best Buy offers electronics recycling, For more info click here.

Another option, find a local company that offers electronics recycling services. Conduct a Google search for "Electronics Recycling" to check out local options. Many communities offer free recycling events.

Wastecare Corporation offers recycling tips for manufacturers. Check out this link:

https://www.wastecare.com/Articles/Waste_Reduction_Recycling_Tips_Manufacturing.htm

Additional resourceful websites on electronics recycling:

https://www.call2recycle.org/locator/

https://search.earth911.com/

http://www.ecyclingcentral.com/

https://www.cta.tech/Consumer-Resources/Greener-Gadgets.aspx/

https://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/electronics/whatisewaste

https://www.epa.gov/smm-electronics

Wrapping It Up

Thanks for reading our post on Electronics Recycling. Hopefully you find theses resources helpful.

[falconerelectronics]

Sam Walton Quotes on Customers, Success, and Leadership

Sam Walton was the founder of Walmart. He valued his customers as well as his employees. Therefore, he encouraged his employees to be great leaders. He also encouraged them to be successful.

Walton also believed that the customer should come first. In addition, he believed that the customers' needs should be the most important thing in not only his business but in every business. Without customers how can any business flourish? Furthermore, Walton encouraged all leaders to be successful by putting their customers first. Using this strategy, the company of Walmart that we know flourished.

Sam Walton on Customers

Sam Walton believed that customers were the most important part of any company. Therefore, there are many memorable quotes that focus on them. Furthermore, he knew how to continue to be successful. Not only did Sam Walton speak about the importance of customers he also ran his business with that at the forefront.

* There is only one boss. The customer. And he can fire everybody in the company from the chairman on down, simply by spending his money somewhere else.

*  The goal as a company is to have customer service that is not just the best, but legendary.

* Exceed your customer's expectations. If you do, they'll come back over and over. Give them what they want - and a little more.

* If one of our customers comes into the store without a smile, I'll give them one of mine.

* If you don't listen to your customers, someone else will.

* Each Walmart store should reflect the values of its customers and support the vision they hold for their community.

Sam Walton on Success

Sam Walton had many things to say about success. He believed that success was directly related to hard work. Also, Walton knew that with time things change. Therefore, in business, you need to be flexible as well as ready for those changes. Furthermore, Walton knew while keeping up with changes you need to also be able to continue to put the customers' needs first.

* You can't just keep doing what works one time, everything around you is changing. To succeed, stay out in front of change.

* To succeed in this world, you have to change all the time.

* Celebrate your success and find humor in your failures. Don't take yourself so seriously. Loosen up and everyone around you will loosen up. Have fun and always show enthusiasm. When all else fails, put on a costume and sing a silly song.

* The secret of successful retailing is to give your customers what they want. And really, if you think about it from the point of view of the customer, you want everything: a wide assortment of good quality merchandise; the lowest possible prices; guaranteed satisfaction with what you buy; friendly, knowledgeable service; convenient hours; free parking; a pleasant shopping experience.

* The key to success is to get out into the store and listen to what the associates have to say. It's terribly important for everyone to get involved. Our best ideas come from clerks and stock boys.

* If you want a successful business, your people must feel that you are working for them - not that they are working for you.

Sam Walton on Leadership

Good leaders are essential to a good business. Walton knew that if you take care of your employees, they, in turn, will take care of you. Therefore, he had a lot of positive advice for leaders. Along with leading, Walton believed that leaders were responsible for keeping other employees on the track for success. Furthermore, he knew good leaders produce good employees. Also, good employees produce good customers.

* Outstanding leaders go out of their way to boost the self-esteem of their personnel. If people believe in themselves, it's amazing what they can accomplish.

* Communicate everything you can to your associates. The more they know, the more they care. Once they care, there is no stopping them.

* Leaders must always put their people before themselves. If you do that, your business will take care of itself.

* Nothing else can quite substitute for a few well-chosen, well-timed, sincere words of praise. They're absolutely free and worth a fortune.

* There's absolutely no limit to what plain, ordinary, working people can accomplish if they're given the opportunity and encouragement to do their best.

* If you love your work, you'll be out there every day trying to do it the best you possibly can, and pretty soon everybody around will catch the passion from you - like a fever.

Lastly, check out our post on: Inspiring Business Quotes Help Conquer Tough Times