Background

Gordon manufactured two styles of fiberglass boats: one for water-skiing and pleasure, the other designed specifically for bass fishing. Both boats were manufactured on the same production line, switching between the two models as orders and demand shifted.

Problem

Business was booming. Obviously, that’s the goal of any business so long as you can fill orders promptly. They were selling boats as fast as they could make them, about two boats per eight-hour shift. So they added a second shift running from 4:00 pm until midnight. At first, this second shift was unable to finish two boats per shift but caught up after several weeks. Nonetheless, production was still not meeting demand. (more…)

Background

Harry was in the ready-mix concrete business. With lots of construction and developments underway, concrete was a good business. Like his competitors, Harry ran a busy yard lined with trucks loading sand, gravel and cement for construction sites. (more…)

By Don Morrison

Background

Charlie ran an engineering and construction company that specialized in road and tunnel work. They worked over a broad geographic area with most of their contracts coming from state and county governments. Because road building requires good weather, most of their work was designed and bid during the winter, with actual construction taking place in late spring, summer and early fall. (more…)

Reprinted from the August 31, 2001 Sacramento Business Journal

Background

Jim and Cheryl owned a retail store that sold high-end hi-fi sound systems. It started out as a hobby – they were real audiophiles. They sold sophisticated equipment in the higher price range to knowledgeable buyers, like themselves, who understood the basics. They had a good corner location on a main thoroughfare. (more…)

Reprinted from the Sacramento Business Journal, July 27,2001

Background

Bill was a painting contractor. Most of his contracts were with repeat customers, some of whom had done business with his father. The business had thrived under Bill, enabling him to invest in a motel, a restaurant, real estate and other businesses. (more…)