Mechanical Components Blog

Analysts indicate that even though the economic recovery has begun, consumer spending will not lead us in the recovery. Consumers, they project, will spend less and try to save more. It may take a decade-plus for confidence to be restored to pre-Recession levels. Is the same new conservatism going to take hold in manufacturing, threatening a longer, shallower slope to the industrial recovery curve? What does that mean for job creation?

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Mechanical Components, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Mechanical Components today.

Most companies say they believe that continuing employee training improves its survival odds or market standing during a recession. But do they back statements with the needed investment? Or, is the difference even important enough, especially when there are so many budget-saving priorities? Have you seen your company or competitors gain an edge from developing the skills of its existing engineering team? Does employee training improve a company's market standing during or after a recession?

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Mechanical Components, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Mechanical Components today.

Journalist Barbara Walters was lampooned for asking the question of famous folks. Yet the concept behind the query seems fair. What symbol is most apt to represent a person, or even a category of people? Is there a symbol that fits mechanical engineers? Mechanical Engineering Magazine ran a poll asking for ideas. The response ranged widely, rather than zeroing in on a consensus. Even so, popular icons for M.E.'s were emerging: a wheel, an engine, a robot, meshing gears, and hex nut and bolt. What icon fits you? Are you a hex nut, or the friendly robot?

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Mechanical Components, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Mechanical Components today.

If you thought the Man vs. Machine contests were put to rest after an IBM supercomputer gave the knock out punch to super chess champ Kasparov in game six of the 1997 series, well think again. Now, IBM is seeking a tougher human challenge. Its new supercomputer Watson is being prepped to compete on Jeopardy. Who are you putting your money on this time around?

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Mechanical Components, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Mechanical Components today.

The economy is forecast to begin rebounding in Q3 or Q4. Early post-Recession periods offer great opportunity for strategic market moves, but manufacturers have to be ready. Are U.S. manufacturers too deep into survival mode to be able to come out punching in post recession? Are cuts too drastic or desperate, rather than aimed at efficiency or positioning for the rebound? Are companies relying too much on head count reduction, or trimming too much promotion, thus squelching chances for needed momentum?

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Mechanical Components, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Mechanical Components today.