WMEP launches new Web site, services for Wisconsin manufacturers

Wisconsin manufacturers have a new online destination to learn about high impact strategies to grow and improve their businesses, the Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership (WMEP) announced on October 12.

Visitors to www.wmep.org will find in-depth information and resources – detailed case studies, video interviews with Wisconsin manufacturers, industry studies, state manufacturing news, blogs and online polls that take the pulse of Wisconsin manufacturers on important issues. In addition, the site provides information on WMEP’s expanded line of Next Generation Manufacturing consulting services.

“Our goal is to provide a place where manufacturers can share ideas and best practices,” said Mike Klonsinski, executive director of WMEP, a non-profit consulting firm that helps manufacturers grow and succeed. “Manufacturing is rapidly evolving, and many companies that are leading the way have important lessons to share. Our website gives them a forum to do so.”

Detailed case studies, several with video, of 12 Wisconsin manufacturers’ successful efforts to grow and improve are featured at the site.

The content-rich site will be continuously updated to provide the latest news from and about Wisconsin’s small and midsize manufacturers. Manufacturers can sign up for WMEP’s e-newsletter or share their company news on the Wisconsin Manufacturers' News page. The site also provides links to business and industry groups, economic development organizations and public and private organizations that offer resources to manufacturers. The site’s easy navigation makes finding information quicker than ever.

Next Generation Manufacturing Consulting Services
WMEP’s industry-leading Next Generation Manufacturing consulting services are designed to drive performance excellence in six crucial areas: customer-focused innovation, systemic continuous improvement, advanced talent management, global engagement, extended enterprise management and sustainable products and process development. Studies show that improving performance in these areas is essential for manufacturing success. The evolution to these services came in response to competitiveness gaps identified in the landmark Wisconsin Next Generation Manufacturing Study.

Covering a wide range of business issues and challenges, WMEP’s new services help manufacturers implement profitable sustainability solutions, enter new markets and attract new customers. Fintel, a Web-based analysis and reporting system, allows manufacturers to benchmark their competitive position in their industries and identify potential benefits from operational and financial improvements. Other new services target new product innovation, competitive intelligence, marketing and succession planning.

“We’ve expanded our tried and true core services that deliver excellent results to Wisconsin manufacturers,” Klonsinski said.

WMEP’s Next Generation Manufacturing consulting services are built on its long-established expertise in lean manufacturing, lean culture, quality and supplier development, areas of assistance still experiencing strong demand.

About WMEP
The Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership is a private, non-profit consulting organization committed to the growth and success of Wisconsin manufacturers. A leader in Next Generation Manufacturing, WMEP brings best practices to Wisconsin firms to help them achieve world-class performance through innovation and transformation. During the past five years, WMEP-assisted manufacturers have reported nearly $1 billion in economic impact with 6,557 jobs created and retained. WMEP receives financial support from the Wisconsin Department of Commerce, and partners with many public and private organizations to serve Wisconsin manufacturers. For more information, visit www.wmep.org or call 877-856-8588.