We learned that if advanced technology is coupled with better management techniques that empower and inspire workers, the result is a manufacturing process with more rapid production schedules, greater flexibility and products with far fewer defects. At IIT as in the auto industry, it is time to take a new look at the way we do things. We need to open our minds to new possibilities. We must step up our drive for perfection. We must renew our commitment to details.
Industry can respond quickly to the needs of individuals and small markets.
As educators, we too must de-massify. The IIT interactive television network that delivers continuing education courses right to the workplace is a start. Our planned wideband fiber-optic network will be another advance. But we must do more. In particular, we must pay more attention to how we educate students about manufacturing.