Manufacturing trends in the roughrider state mirror those seen nationwide: small manufacturers are on the rise. In 2014, North Dakota manufacturers exported more than $2.24 billion worth of goods, 80% of which stemmed from small businesses.

According to the American Small Manufacturers Coalition, there are more than 270,000 small manufacturers across the country. Small manufacturers follow different production models, than their larger counterparts, creating agile production schedules and a made-to-order mentality.  By making products on demand, small manufacturers are cutting production costs, foregoing overstock problems, and creating custom, quality materials.

Unfortunately, creators both big and small face similar business concerns. Small manufacturers must still work to keep costs low, meet quotas, and produce quality materials – and can incorporate lean principles into their daily operations just as effectively as large organizations.  

Wahpeton based Industrial Plating Corporation (IPC) employs 55 employees and ran into capacity and space constraints in 2004. The company partnered with Impact Dakota and successfully implemented changes that delayed major capital improvements, scaled back production space, and implemented process improvements.

Fargo based CertiRestore Certified Furniture Restoration employs four staff members. Despite their small size, the organization worked with Impact Dakota to successfully implement lean principles, resulting in increased sales, improved work floor productivity, and shorter new employee training time.

Small manufacturers have established themselves as integral parts of the industry and continue making their presence known. No matter the size of your company, Impact Dakota can help implement lean principles to your processes, keeping costs low while maintaining a productive environment.