Advanced, Progressive, Struggling and Disengaged were categories given out to manufacturers at a recent Chicago Economic Development Council meeting.
Two things stand out about these categories: First, if you are in any category other than Advanced you are at severe risk of having the world markets pass you by. Second, 75% of manufacturers in the greater Midwest fall into the bottom two categories.
I found the definitions of each category to be enlightening and relevant to any organization, not just manufacturers.
- Advanced – Organizational recognition of change and active pursuit of technology. (Have a clue)
Progressive – Ownership recognition of change but low implementation. (Getting a clue)
Struggling – Ownership debating the need for change. (A clue is in the area)
Disengaged – Ownership not actively involved or sees no reason to change or implement technology. (Clueless)
There are few reasons why an organization can’t move itself up in these categories, positioning itself for growth in the global marketplace. It takes a strategic vision, a creative workforce and environment and a will to compete beyond existing markets. Plus, in the midwest reagion there are dozens of grants, government bodies, trade organizations that can be used creatively to drive towards a strategic vision.
The Chicago Economic Development Council is at www.edcchicago.org.