Taking a cookie-cutter approach to digital transformation is a losing play. Your organization is unique; its innovation journey should be, too. But if there’s one universal constant for manufacturers undergoing a change, it’s the value to be gained in the process. Emerging technologies empower manufacturers to run more smoothly, efficiently, and intelligently.

In this episode of the Ahead of the Curve Podcast, Chris Henry connects with Eric Satterthwaite, the VP of Sales for Manufacturing and Distribution at Gerent, to consider how technology can help alleviate pain points in the manufacturing industry. The pair discuss:

01:50 — Why companies should clarify what they want out of a digital transformation before launching one

04:47 — How a lack of organization around sample requests and lead management can ultimately pose a six-figure operational cost

11:37 — Why “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” isn’t an workable philosophy when it comes to long-term strategic planning in manufacturing

14:48 — How CRM systems can help manufacturers forestall the hiring crunch by attracting Gen X and Gen Y workers

Episode Guest:

Eric Satterthwaite

SVP Sales (Manufacturing, Distribution, Automotive, Travel & Education), Gerent

Eric Satterthwaite is an energetic leader and strategic salesperson who has helped hundreds of companies realize their CRM goals and bolster their ROI with Salesforce. In his current role with Gerent, Satterthwaite is responsible for directing sales across the company’s manufacturing, distribution, automotive, travel, and education verticals.