Information on manufacturing is easy to find, whether you are looking for vendors, publications, continuing education, networking opportunities or more. Process technologies information resources can come in many forms including tradeshow events, magazines, newsletter, conversations with colleagues. The list goes on and on.

Part of the trick of information for manufacturing is staying on top of what your competitors are doing and having a clear vision of the future of your business. You can accomplish this by keeping a pulse on the industry and making sure that you are networking with the right contacts and reading the right publications to keep you informed.

To make the most of available information on manufacturing:

1. Learn information on manufacturing from others through conventions, trade events, affiliations and other networking means.

2. Read up. Sign up for one of the many free or paid subscriptions to trade magazines and newsletters.

3. Work on continuing your education in the field. Keep your business at the top by staying fresh and informed on the latest technologies and how you can implement them in your business.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Jump right into information for manufacturing

Take a dive into manufacturing and process technologies information resources by considering joining an affiliation or group, attending an industry event or signing up for continuing education or programs.

I recommend: Check out the latest manufacturing industry news through the Association For Manufacturing Technology. You can also consider a membership with their organization. Consider joining the IEEE Components, Packaging and Manufacturing Technology (CPMT) Society. Go to the International Manufacturing Technology Show to help you find manufacturing technology solutions, network with business colleagues and associates and find vendor connections for your business. Take a look at the Department of Defense's Manufacturing Technology Program.

Use newsletters as manufacturing technologies information resources

Sign up for a hard copy or e-Newsletter subscription to fill your information on manufacturing needs.

I recommend: Sign up for the free Manufacturing.net e-Newsletter. Five days a week, you can find out breaking news about manufacturing, global business developments, governmental actions, mergers and acquisitions, financial news and management trends. Sign up for the free e-Newsletter from Manufacturing & Technology News, a twice a month publication. Consider signing up for the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Alert. You can purchase hard copies or receive regional or global licensing for weekly emails. Sign up for one of the many Solid State Technology eNewsletters.

Find up-to-date information on manufacturing

Look for the latest information for manufacturing professionals through industry publications. Check out online versions, or sign up for one of the many free hard copy subscriptions available.

I recommend: Subscribe for free to Manufacturing Business Technology for the latest in manufacturing information. Receive a free subscription to Gear Technology magazine. Check out the digital edition of Advanced Manufacturing. Obtain a free subscription to INDUSTRYWEEK, or sign up for their free e-Newsletter.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When discussing information on manufacturing, be sure and be mindful what is discussed. Don't let a big company secret out of the bag during the course of a casual conversation with a colleague. Be discreet in what you share, but always keep an ear open for word on your competitors.