As a third-generation educator, it is easy to say that teaching and training are in the blood for Ron Slee. From his beginnings as a coach, through his time at McGill University, Ron developed a foundation for the work he does today. From working within dealerships, to operating a consulting company, creating a training business and running twenty groups, Ron has been directly involved in this Industry since 1969. Ron has been known as the industry expert for years, and has brought this expe ...
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The Impact of Gratitude on Business Vitality and Employee Retention
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Have you ever wondered what truly powers a thriving workplace? Join me and my good friend Kurt Pease, as we unravel the impact of employee engagement and recognition on the vitality of a business. Kurt, a seasoned expert in harnessing the potential within teams, shares his wisdom on creating a culture of appreciation that goes beyond the bottom lin…
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Sara Hanks' Story of Professional Growth and Mentorship
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Navigating the labyrinth of a male-dominated engineering world, Sara Hanks brings her narrative to the forefront, sharing the trials and triumphs from her journey that prove both her mettle and the pervasive gender dynamics in STEM. With a keen understanding of the complexities of business efficiency, Sara's tales of exceeding financial targets and…
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Transforming Enterprises with AI and Business Analytics Insights
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Unlock the transformative power of data as we embark on an exploration with Steve Clegg of Zintoro, where the convergence of business analytics and artificial intelligence takes center stage. Steve's remarkable journey from WR Grace to Avis, and eventually to EIA Investors, serves as our roadmap through the intricacies of predictive models, algorit…
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Navigating the Future of Work: Addressing America's Skills Gap and Employment Challenges with Ed Gordon
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Prepare to navigate the treacherous waters of America's employment and skills terrain with Ed Gordon, the sage voice behind the white paper "Job Shock" and the influential book "Future Jobs." As we dissect the alarming skills gap threatening to leave half of the workforce in the lurch by 2030, we dive deep into the crumbling education-to-employment…
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Reconciling Technological Innovations with Innate Human Sensibilities
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Could our reliance on artificial intelligence be numbing our innate human touch? Join myself and John Andersen as we dissect the delicate dance between emotional intelligence and AI in today's business world. In a landscape where numbers and algorithms reign supreme, we take a step back to appreciate the unquantifiable value of intuition and gut fe…
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Decoding the Fusion of Tech and Operations in the Auto Industry
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Unlock the secret to seamless integration in the auto industry with our special guest Mets Kramer, who joins us on a journey to decode the complex relationship between systems providers and dealerships. As we navigate the murky waters of dealer management systems, Mets brings his dual expertise in dealership operations and software development to t…
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The Road Ahead for Dealership Dynamics and Software Solutions
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Prepare to unravel the tangled reality of business systems within the heavy equipment and agriculture sectors alongside industry expert John Andersen. In a marketplace where the schism between dealership demands and software solutions deepens, we dissect the shortcomings of recent mergers, such as the one resulting in Vital Edge, critiquing their s…
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Mastering Failure Analysis: The Collision of Human Skill and Machine Technology with Jim Dettore
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Uncover the intricacies of failure analysis with industry expert Jim Dettore from Failure Analysis Services, as he takes us on an enlightening journey through the labyrinth of machine breakdowns and preventative strategies. His story, morphing from a seasoned machinist to a heralded trainer, offers a treasure trove of knowledge, emphasizing the imp…
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The Future of Equipment Dealerships: Insights from Texada's Matt Harris
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Brace yourself for a fascinating journey into the world of equipment dealerships and rental companies with our guest, Matt Harris, the innovative mind behind Texada. A revolutionary software that is shaking up the traditional approach in this industry, Texada uses an integrated platform, cloud-based software, and an experienced team to push boundar…
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Exploring the 'Say Do' Principle, Business Efficiency, and Leadership in the Modern Workplace
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Ever wonder why the "Say Do" principle resonates so profoundly in today's workplace culture? Ponder no more! Our enlightening conversation with Ohio-based podcaster, Sara Hanks, peels back layers on this notion, spotlighting its vital role amidst changing dynamics between different generations at work. We shine the beacon on the importance of mutua…
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From Night Shifts to Management: A Journey of Success in Construction Industry
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What could your career journey look like if you dedicated your life to product support in the construction industry? We sat down with Ron Wilson, a seasoned professional who climbed the ladder from working a night shift in a warehouse to becoming a field service manager. Ron shares a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of our industry, the…
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The Game-changing Role of AI in Equipment Management
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Ready to step into the future of equipment management? Prepare to be wowed as Dale Hanna, founder and president of Foresight Intelligence, introduces us to an AI-powered, voice-enabled platform that's set to be a game-changer. Deep dive into a world where manual input becomes a thing of the past, real-time equipment location is the norm and work or…
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Challenging Traditional Career Norms: A Dive Into Technical Skills, Workplace Efficiency, and Work-Life Balance
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When was the last time you considered a career path beyond the traditional route? Isaac Rollor, our guest for today, chose to leap straight into work after high school, bypassing college. He shares his insights on non-traditional career paths, specifically focusing on the importance of technical skills in a dealership. Isaac's experiences shine a l…
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Transforming the Technician Industry: A Discussion on Challenges and Solutions
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Ever wondered why there's a gaping chasm between sales and service departments in the technician industry? Are you curious about the future of heavy equipment service providers? Node-wrenching conversation with industry insider Alex Kraft promises to provide eye-opening insights into these questions and more. Alex demystifies the economic challenge…
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Sara Hanks on Embracing Change in the Hiring Space
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Ever wondered how curiosity could play a central role in your hiring strategy? Or why credentials aren't always the gatekeepers to success? Well, for all the curious minds out there, we're thrilled to welcome Sara Hanks to our podcast. Sara, a seasoned blogger and a digital transformation expert, shares her wisdom and insights on hiring, performanc…
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Unlocking the Power of Relationships: A Journey with Ed Wallace
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How do relationships shape our lives, businesses, and legacies? Join us in a profound conversation with Ed Wallace as we unfold the intricate fabric of meaningful connections and their long-lasting impact. We draw upon the microcosm of our individual lives, sketching them as a 'dash' of about 85 years. Within this dash, we emphasize the power of re…
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Driving Change: The Evolution of Dealer Management Systems
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Join us on a fascinating journey with industry expert John Andersen as we unpack the evolution of dealer management systems in the automotive industry. We'll reveal how the industry seems to be in a standstill regarding dealer computer systems and discuss the public reaction to John's blog post about the changing landscape of systems and contracts.…
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Redefining Leadership with Sonya Law: A Deep Dive into Modern Leadership Dynamics
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Are you ready to redefine your understanding of leadership? Join us for an enlightening conversation with our special guest, Sonya Law. With extensive experience in corporate and consulting roles, Sonya brings a fresh perspective to the evolving landscape of leadership. Our discussion uncovers the necessities of a modern leader, highlighting the sh…
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The March of Technology: Insights into Dealer Systems Evolution
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Are you ready to embark on an enlightening journey through the evolution of computer systems in the dealership world? Accompany us, your hosts, as we rewind to our humble beginnings with Joseph and Jennifer on our first interaction with on-premise AS400 green screen applications. We delve into how the understanding of dealers' modus operandi plays …
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Transforming Mindsets for Entrepreneurial Success
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Get ready to revolutionize your entrepreneurial journey with Alex Kraft, the dynamic founder of Heave. Imagine being a pioneer, leading a new wave of innovation and success in your business. That's exactly what Alex did and he's here to share how channeling the mindset of early adopters and understanding the landscape of 'pioneers and settlers' can…
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Unlocking the Power of Accreditation: Advancements in Workforce Development and Online Learning
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How can becoming an accredited education provider impact your workforce development initiatives? Join us as we chat with Caroline, our curriculum expert and IACET liaison, to uncover the secrets behind the accreditation process and the essential role of privacy policies in protecting student data. You won't want to miss her insights on the internat…
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Embracing AI for Positive Change in the Marketplace
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Can you imagine a world where business systems are augmented by artificial intelligence, maximizing efficiency and leading to positive change in the marketplace? Join our conversation with John Andersen, who recently published his dissertation on the state of the market and business systems, and explore how innovations in AI-driven technology have …
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The Iceland Adventure: Discovering Balance and Clarity in Our Lives
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What if taking a vacation could bring you valuable lessons that impact your daily life? Join us as we welcome back Sarah Hanksback, who shares her unforgettable experience in Iceland and how it reinforced the importance of finding balance between our careers, family, and personal well-being. Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland as Sarah …
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John Andersen and Ron talk about the changes in information and technology and how it fits into the challenges facing equipment dealers and business system providers with the ultimate end user – the customer ...
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With the increasing pace of change in technology and communications and artificial intelligence and data analytics something is being left out of the discussions. The end user. The machine operator and the owner of the machine. Who is at the table in discussions about what is needed in technology and information who represents them? Visit us at Lea…
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Mets Kramer and I talk about the recent changes in the world of dealer business systems
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With the dealer business systems receiving investments from venture capitalists and mergers taking place, are changes going to be coming to business processes? With Data Analytics and Business Intelligence, open AI and Telematics, sensors to monitor machine health and third-party software for electronic parts catalogues and repair and maintenance i…
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Roy Lapa and I talk about branding as a critical element in this Candid Conversation.
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Branding of equipment, of the equipment manufacturer or the dealer is a critical aspect of the relationship that a business has with their customers. The individual serving customers has a brand as well. The bonding of customers to their suppliers is critical in this world of rapid changes. Don’t miss the valuable information that is covered in thi…
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John Andersen and I talk about ChatGPT and Dealer Business Systems.
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ChatGPT is changing the world. John started this about a month ago. He pushes us further with a challenge to the businesses that provide systems to the distribution channel. He is looking for visionaries. This is a fundamental problem for everyone. The customer is the only person that we have to satisfy. It is a personal connection. Don’t miss the …
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Sara Hanks opens up an extremely important aspect of Project Management.
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Sara talks to us about the Stakeholders of a project, These people are the ones upon whom the success of any project depends. She uses a “matrix” to identify the different groups of stakeholders. It is a very important function that Sara provides to the market. It is one that will be very common in the future. Don’t miss the valuable information th…
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Alex Kraft brings us up-to-date on his technician program on Heave
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Alex and I talk about his app on iOS and Android that matches technicians with customers needing repairs and maintenance. Launched a mere six weeks ago we hear how this is doing in the market. Don’t miss catching up on this wonderful solution to a major problem. Visit us at LearningWithoutScars.org for more training solutions for Equipment Dealersh…
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Alex Kraft and his blog on Lazy Management
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Alex and I talk about the challenges of leadership today. From the challenges of the different generations to the delay in the transfer of leadership from one generation to the next. You may agree or disagree with our opinions in this Candid Conversation. Visit us at LearningWithoutScars.org for more training solutions for Equipment Dealerships - C…
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Mets Kramer introduces his new dealer management system.
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Throughout his career Mets has often been in the forefront of issues and things. From his time working within dealers to his current work he has obtained a lot of knowledge and applied that knowledge to help dealers. You will be interested in his view on the current state of business systems. Visit us at LearningWithoutScars.org for more training s…
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Christopher Kiely revisits his career and his thinking about how equipment has changed over his working life.
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Christopher is a hard-working, very talented man with extraordinary technical and communication skills. He will very quickly dispel any preconceived notions anyone might have about the technicians looking after capital equipment. Some of the most intelligent and educated people are in our shops and field vehicles. Visit us at LearningWithoutScars.o…
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Sara Hanks introduces us to another method to get going with Process Improvement – Start in the Middle.
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Sara Hanks introduces the Start with the Middle approach to process Improvement and explains the why and the how to get started. Continuing to do what we have always done is a prescription to failure. Don’t miss this session. Visit us at LearningWithoutScars.org for more training solutions for Equipment Dealerships - Construction, Mining, Agricultu…
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Alex Kraft announces the creation of “Uber” for Equipment Repairs
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Alex Kraft makes an announcement of this latest offering. On the Apple and Galaxy Stores is a new app. It allows equipment owners to find mechanics to perform repair and maintenance and allows technicians to obtain work that they want. Visit us at LearningWithoutScars.org for more training solutions for Equipment Dealerships - Construction, Mining,…
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Chris Kohart and Ron discuss the industry and change.
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Chris has been involved in this industry since he was in high school. We look back and talk about the changes that we have experienced and what is yet to come. Visit us at LearningWithoutScars.org for more training solutions for Equipment Dealerships - Construction, Mining, Agriculture, Cranes, Trucks and Trailers. We provide comprehensive online l…
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Alex Kraft and Ron discuss his "Getting Better" blog post
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With athletics as a foundation, we discuss the transition to business and why there is no clear path on self-improvement. Who inspires us to get better at what we do for our work or what we are as a person. Once we leave our days in school, what is available to help any of us to get better. This is a most important question as the workforce becomes…
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Debbie Frakes and Steve Clegg join us from Mexico to discuss the use of AI and dealer transaction data to forecast and manage the business through the boom-and-bust cycles in this industry through Winsby ...
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Through the use of Winsby and Customer Satisfaction calls with Debbie and Zintoro and AI with Steve they have created an invaluable tool for us all to use. This Candid Conversation covers some amazing statistics and customer retention and the impact it has on profitability for a dealer. This is a conversation that should not be missed. Visit us at …
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Mets Kramer and I continue to talk about Digitalization of Dealers. This conversation covers what we need to do “internally.”
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Recently Mets and I, as well as others on here with us, have talked about the Digital Dealer. Our conversations in this case are aimed at the internal issues that we have to confront and deal with properly. We touch on all of the most critical elements within these subjects. You will hear Mets talk about each of the important aspects of improving y…
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Sara Hanks and I talk about Process Improvement integrated with Six Sigma and Project Management.
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Recently Sara delivered a lecture at a local University. She put Project Management and Process Improvement together in the lecture. We continue that discussion covering process mapping, waste management control and the critical nature of data quality. Our conversations meander all over these subjects. You will hear Sara’s thoughts on each of these…
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Dale Hanna and I talk about the services that are provided by Foresight Intelligence.
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Starting the delivery of Business Intelligence more than twelve years ago Foresight Intelligence has performed the critically important work for contractors covering communications between repair facilities and customers, Inspections, Fault Codes and Sensors and Telematics, and Oil Sampling. Our conversations meander all over these subjects. You wi…
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Mike Pentz and Mets Kramer and I continue our conversation about branding, addressing the challenges of getting this done.
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Transferring any business from transactional to aspirational is tough. Changing a culture is very difficult. Our conversations meander all over the subject. You will get many ideas and hear about how to embed a brand in a business. Visit us at LearningWithoutScars.org for more training solutions for Equipment Dealerships - Construction, Mining, Agr…
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Caroline and I talk about the ongoing changes to our classes from the “Sage on the Stage” through Webinars then the early days on internet learning.
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Caroline has created the learning management software approaches we have used in Learning Without Scars classes. She goes over how she has done the classes as well as how we have adapted the classes to the student surveys and outside world influences. This should help you better understand why these learning opportunities help individual employees …
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Bruce Baker brings us up to date on his "Contracting with Executive Leadership" option.
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Bruce Baker explains to us how he has transitioned his business from specific “consulting and advisory” engagements to more complete “Organizational Development” work. This Candid Conversation covers the pitfalls and opportunities present for the business and the advisor when organizational development and culture change is introduced. Each of you …
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Mets Kramer and Mike Pentz join us as we identify the value and importance of your Brand
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Mike Pentz from the Calvin Group and Mets Kramer develop the foundation for the importance of the brand that the dealership creates. It allows the employees to relate to what they do. It is aspirational. It is fundamental to the success of an organization. Visit us at LearningWithoutScars.org for more training solutions for Equipment Dealerships - …
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Bill Pyles joins us for this Candid Conversation on the Service Department Organization
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Bill has spent his entire career, starting with the Marine Corp and ending with Executive positions in Product Support and the Service Department. Having worked within the Caterpillar, Komatsu and John Deere OEM organizations he has a unique perspective on most things. Don’t miss this enjoyable conversation with a very knowledgeable man. Visit us a…
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Mick Vaught talks about attracting, interviewing, hiring, developing and retaining employees
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Mick Vaught joins us for this Lifelong Learning discussion. Attracting, interviewing, hiring, developing and retaining employees is critical to your success. Mick and I discuss some of the changes and challenges that face our learning communities. Mick Vaught has a deep and broad history in our Industry. From working with several OEM’s and being in…
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Alex Kraft and I follow up on his Blog on Customer Service. It seems that Customer Loyalty and Customer Service are inextricably linked.
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With the changing customer, the changing marketplace, the changes in technology we have lost sight of the basic need for business. Customer Service. This Candid Conversation covers the changes and shared experiences both professionally and personally that we have had to deal with over the past several decades. This conversation should provoke some …
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Sara Hanks and I follow up on her Blog from August 9th on Process Mapping. In order to be effective at Continuous Improvement (CI) process Mapping is a foundational requirement. With Continuous Improvement it is felt that an improvement operationally of ten percent is very possible. This Candid Conversation covers the history of Process Mapping fro…
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Bonnie Feigenbaum and Ron talk about her lecture series on Basic Marketing hosted by Learning Without Scars
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You don’t want to miss this exciting new offering. This is a ten-lecture series hosted by Learning Without Scars. This wide-ranging discussion on the lecture series is an introduction to a new learning tool we are offering. Learning Without Scars is hosting University and other specialized Educators so that they can share their wisdom and transfer …
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Sara Hanks brings her strong background from the perspective of an Engineer.
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From her early years at GE where she acquired strong skills in Lean and Manufacturing and 6 Sigma, Sara's wide-ranging discussion covers the difficulties of change. From the early adopters to continuing engagement with the people affected and how all of this changes the needs for leadership. You will hear various approaches to some common difficult…
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