The Final Word by Jim Thompson


It is indeed hard to manage research (see opening editorial), however, it is not impossible. Witness the many industries who regularly count on research to maintain their competitive edge. One that constantly amazes me is the agricultural equipment industry. Global Positioning Systems (GPS) have provided a plethora of new products in this industry in recent years, but at the same time engines, power transfer devices, and other mechanical components, seemingly in use for a hundred years or more, have also had a surge in innovation.

We must get back to innovation, not only in the products we sell, but in the processes we use to make those products. Hopefully, we will see that day soon.