In the new economy manufacturers must contend with a multitude of issues including tighter credit conditions, pressure to cut costs, and declining sales. Fast changing business conditions require innovative solutions in all areas of the organization. Rapid access to information and communications technologies means that integrated software solutions are essential, in today’s economy, to help address challenges, such as:

• Rising business costs
• Changing patterns of customer demand
• Competition from China
• New product development
• Managing supplier capabilities

Join us as Corinne Lynds, Senior Editor of Plant Newspaper, hosts an interactive Webcast featuring Jayson Myers, President of Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters; Dave Miller, Country Manager - Microsoft Business Solutions; and Joel Martin, Senior ERP Product Manager for Microsoft Canada Co. The discussion will focus on key areas such as the economy, global environment, innovation, technology and lean manufacturing.

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) is Canada’s leading trade and industry association and the voice of manufacturing and global business in Canada.

The association directly represents more than 10,000 leading companies nationwide. More than 85% of CME’s members are small and medium-sized enterprises. As Canada’s leading business network, CME, through various initiatives including icosmo.ca and the establishment of the Canadian Manufacturing Coalition, touches more than 100,000 companies from coast to coast, engaged in manufacturing, global business and service-related industries.

CME’s membership network accounts for an estimated 82% of total manufacturing production and 90% of Canada’s exports.

PLANT provides Canada’s most comprehensive industrial editorial package, reporting on current issues and trends, the latest product innovations and leading edge companies. Features focus on automation, information technology for industry, machinery and its maintenance, facilities maintenance, materials management, the environment, energy management and workplace safety. PLANT’s print and e-newsletter frequency ensures this information is in decision-makers’ hands when they need it.