CabinetMaker+FDM - May 2012

FIRST CUT
by William Sampson
will.sampson@ccimedia.net
Find what you need fast

This issue contains our annual print edition of the Woodworking Product Source, our directory of woodworking products, supplies, and equipment. But what appears in these pages is just one part of a massive multi-media package designed to get you the information you need in the way you want it to quickly find what you need for your business.

Encompassing nearly 4,000 products from more than 900 companies, the Woodworking Product Source is the most comprehensive database of machinery, tools, hardware, components, and other supplies specifically for the woodworking industry. There is not enough room in the printed directory to include all of those products, but we have listed a representative sampling in these pages.

Multi-media sourcing

Consider this directory a doorway to
fast and efficient multi-media sourcing
for your company. The printed directory
is organized in sections for convenient
browsing in areas such as machinery,
tooling, hardware, supplies, technol-
ogy, parts and components. Within
each broad category are more specific
subsections, such as CNC routers and
machining centers under the heading
of Machinery. Or you will find portable
power tools under Small Equipment.

Start using this directory by browsing through the categories of interest, then note the individual listings for companies and products for which you want more information. Then follow the links to a wealth of details and even more products online. If you access the directory through the digital edition of the magazine, you can simply click the links to be transported immediately to the full listings in the Woodworking Product Source online.

The online Woodworking Product Source has powerful search tools to take you right to specific items of interest, or you can browse the categories there just like paging through this directory. The point is you can quickly access the information you need the way you want it to find just what you are looking for as fast as possible.

So, start sourcing! ;
10 habits of successful contractors

I saw an interesting story on LinkedIn listing the 10 things successful local contractors do. The list suggests that contractors look at markets with local job growth, know about investor involvement in their market and the relationship between job growth and new construction spending.

The list, from Genie Bazaar, www.geniebazaar.com, also suggests contractors meet deadlines, provide free estimates, network with contractors in other trades and advertise.

Specifically, the list suggests contractors see which markets are adding jobs and which are losing jobs. Job growth fuels home improvement spending, the site suggests. Also, keep track of investor activity. In markets such as Phoenix, Orlando and Las Vegas investors are buying distressed properties, reducing debt on these houses and lowering the supply of existing properties.

Also, keep track of inflation in materials prices and

by Karl D. Forth

karl.forth@ccimedia.net

know the impact of inflation on the business’s bottom line. The list suggests price inflation will affect power tools over the next year.

Meeting deadlines is especially important when there is a large supply of companies willing to do the work. Providing free estimates can be tricky, but could also lead to more business.

The list said that customers want discounts before purchasing anything, and suggests mail advertising to put an offer in front of customers. Contractors are using escrow services and partial advances to avoid delayed payment.