Remaining competitive in your industry is an ongoing project. The economy, political events, the introduction of new technology, even the weather, as we are now seeing, can really wreak havoc on the best-laid plans. But following these strategies will help you endure even the most difficult times.

Develop Agility. Making decisions under our current conditions means being nimble in our responses to a variety of concepts. For example, the supply chain disruption brought about by the hurricanes sweeping across the southern part of the United States has caused many an industry dependent on the fuel and chemicals provided by that region to reexamine their business plan.

Understand Your “Secret Sauce.” There is a reason you are you and other businesses are not you, right? Identify what differentiates you from the competition and do not lose sight of that value. Do not follow trends just because others in your industry are if it doesn’t comply with your core mission. Don’t know what differentiates you? Ask your customers!

Simplify! Whether it is working with legacy technology or converting to innovative designs, simplification helps any business weather the ups and downs of the marketplace. Manufacturing requires a series of processes that are subject to change when technology develops. If your industry requires mixing, for example, the static mixers offered by Komax are revolutionary in terms of technology, energy usage and efficiency. Using low pressure drop and the natural force of gravity can save many industries significant amounts of money in addition to creating a nonfouling stream in the pipeline, which also reduces downtime and maintenance costs.

We are more connected as a world economy than ever before. We have access to markets that were previously out of reach, while our own markets are becoming more elusive with customer’s access to the Internet and the vast array of choices it provides. Make sure you remain competitive by taking a look at innovation and your own core values.