On The Web, December 2002

This Site Is So Old School, It's Too Cool

From a research perspective, most of the more useful Web developments of late for manufacturers have come from traditional sources. As a matter of fact, sites or resources that deserve bookmarks for business support are few and far between.

But have you seen Thomas lately?

Thomas Register—the industrial purchasing directory publisher—is 125 years old and is slowly but surely developing an online presence that can bring bottom-line benefits to you in unique ways.

First, the site (http://www.thomasregister.com/) offers numerous sourcing opportunities for myriad supplies, equipment, components and more to support your manufacturing business. This natural progression from the company's original directory model makes perfect sense to those familiar with "the big, green book."

Next, Thomas has expanded its online fare with ThomasSpec, a special suite of tools and services that includes a Software Selector, a comprehensive Mechanical/Electromechanical Product Locator that is worth the price of admission, and Thomas' Custom Quotes (its plug-in to the MfgQuote Network, where buyers and suppliers of discrete machined parts and services connect).

CadRegister (http://www.cadregister.com/) contains the PartSpec database, which includes more than 1 million mechanical and machined parts that can be reviewed and/or downloaded into a CAD package or drawing.

As Thomas continues to integrate and aggregate its experience and knowledge with Web-based technologies during the coming year, keep your eye on this well-kept secret. This may well become the oldest new company you know.

Job Shop Site Of The Month
The last JSSOTM of 2002 is Apex Precision, Inc., a multiple process precision manufacturer located in Quebec, Canada. Apex has developed a multi-functional Web site (http://www.apexprecision.ca/) with a focus on connectivity with its prospective customers. First, Apex presents strong support of its manufacturing competence in EDM, turning and milling; following the Capabilities links leads not just to pictures of what Apex makes, but also to the materials, tolerances and other specs of those products. And the Request A Quote and Free Drawing Review Forms allow for more contextual prospect contact with Apex.

To have your site considered for Job Shop Site Of The Month, send your URL to otw@mmsonline.com.

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