Short Run Pro Members Receive Epic Award

April 18, 2013

The Montcross Chamber of Commerce in Belmont, North Carolina celebrated its 53rd annual banquet and meeting at the Grand Hall of the Mount Holly Municipal Complex. The Chamber honored Short Run Pro’s President, Scott Toal and company partner D.J. Toal with the EPIC Award.

The Toal brothers were awarded The EPIC Award, which stands for Entrepreneurial, Progressive, Innovative and Collaborative, as individuals who have supported the community, demonstrated growth, innovation and worked with others as mentors and collaborators.

The Toal’s ten years in business start-ups have given them insight into pitfalls and growth areas of business. This knowledge is put to good use in advising new business owners as Scott and D.J. serve on the Entrepreneurial Roundtable for the Chamber. They are committed to helping others see their own small businesses grow.

Short Run Pro Members Receive Epic Award

April 18, 2013

The Montcross Chamber of Commerce in Belmont, North Carolina celebrated its 53rd annual banquet and meeting at the Grand Hall of the Mount Holly Municipal Complex. The Chamber honored Short Run Pro’s President, Scott Toal and company partner D.J. Toal with the EPIC Award.

The Toal brothers were awarded The EPIC Award, which stands for Entrepreneurial, Progressive, Innovative and Collaborative, as individuals who have supported the community, demonstrated growth, innovation and worked with others as mentors and collaborators.

The Toal’s ten years in business start-ups have given them insight into pitfalls and growth areas of business. This knowledge is put to good use in advising new business owners as Scott and D.J. serve on the Entrepreneurial Roundtable for the Chamber. They are committed to helping others see their own small businesses grow.

New American Metal Manufacturing Video Series Released

July 11, 2012

In support of American manufacturing and their current Bring It Home campaign, Short Run Pro is releasing a new video series about how as an American company, they manufacture and produce sheet metal parts. This video series will introduce Short Run Pro's manufacturing facility in Sidney, Ohio and demonstrate to consumers the processes used in their facilities to create these American-made metal fab parts. From punching to shearing to laser-cutting, Short Run Pro takes consumers on a simple tour through Short Run Pro's manufacturing processes of raw steel, stainless steel, and aluminum parts. Short Run Pro will release nineteen videos that will come out every Tuesday on various video sites including Youtube, among many others.

Short Run Pro's overall mission is to continue to increase the American manufacturing job market by not only giving American workers the opportunity to work in their manufacturing plants, but to also raise awareness of the need for American manufacturing jobs through their online campaign process. As of June 2012, American manufacturing jobs were increased by 14,000. Although jobs were added, the American rate of unemployment continues to be at a high of 8.2%. Short Run Pro would like to help decrease this rate dramatically through their campaign efforts and their manufacturing video series.

If you would like more information on Short Run Pro's manufacturing processes or their Bring it Home campaign, please go to www.shortrunpro.com or www.shortrunpro.com/BringItHomeUSA.aspx.

Short Run Pro is Helping to Continue the Growth of the Economy

May 31, 2012

According to recent articles, the U.S. economy is beginning to gradually improve. A recent Business Week article indicated that in March, “manufacturing in the U.S. expanded at a faster pace driven by gains in employment and production.” Quality Magazine also stated that the United States Manufacturing Technology Orders (USMTO) report in February demonstrated a 9.3% increase from January for companies participating in the report. Short Run Pro is here to help continue this increasing economic trend with the “Bring it Home” campaign.

There are numerous articles online that have illustrated the same recent progression, saying the economy is improving, but it will definitely be a gradual process. One Bloomberg article stated that “The share of households viewing the economy as heading in the right direction rose to 34 percent in March, the most since January 2004.” They also proclaimed that people are beginning to feel like things are stabilizing which is in turn raising confidence in Americans. Labor Department figures showed that “jobless claims decreased by 5,000 to 348,000 in the week ended March 17, the fewest since February 2008.”

Although no one will know for sure whether efforts by Short Run Pro and the many other businesses involved in helping this movement are the reason for these recent economic changes, it is for sure that they do not hurt. Short Run Pro’s “Bring it Home” campaign is attempting to not only move manufacturing back to America, but also help keep manufacturing within our shores. Short Run Pro wants to make people aware of the change that this can possibly cause. By starting this grass roots campaign in mid-January that includes articles, blogs, press releases, videos, and twitter feeds meant to link to other sites, we are striving to bring awareness to America’s current economical recession and what we can do to help solve it.

For more information on Short Run Pro’s campaign, please go to www.shortrunpro.com.

Local in and Local out

April 15, 2012

It is reported that small business and entrepreneurship is going to bolster the U.S. economy and deliver the proverbial light at the end of the recession tunnel. If indeed this were the case, it would present a very positive outlook for the manufacturing base in the United State.

According to Scott Toal, President at Short Run Pro, the production requirements of new, small and medium sized companies are well suited for homegrown manufacturing. “The ordering requirements for small business are generally short run, fast turn production. This type of production creates a more competitive environment for companies that have the capabilities to turn product around quickly while at the same time makes mass production from vendors overseas less competitive”, said Mr. Toal. “If the trend for new business startup and small business growth continues in the United States, the manufacturing base at home should have a solid forecast well into the future.”

As the same time small, local businesses have been becoming more interactive with consumers via social tools on the Internet and through new marketing styles. This interaction provides real-time feedback from the buyer on what they are looking for and how they want it delivered. “As the consumer drives for more custom styled products, the small businesses community will realize an increasing need for product manufactured within the U.S.A.”

About Short Run Pro –

Short Run Pro is dedicated to the manufacturing of quality products that are produced in the United States. To follow the progress of US based manufacturing checkout the company’s Bring It Home campaign at www.shortrunpro.com. Together we can bring back the local business and help our local economy grow.

Manufacturing Gains Won, Technology to Keep them

February 16, 2012

Everyone knows the qualities of “Made in the USA” products are second to none. This obviously can be challenged with specific instances. But a comprehensive view of production from a national standpoint makes a fool out of anyone who wishes to list the United States anywhere but on the top. When questionable quality is eliminated, the next aspect of order reasoning is lead-time - how long does it take to get the product. It takes a long time to get products shipped overseas. Unless it can be shipped air, like all of those small iPhones individually shipped from the factory in China, a U.S. based manufacturer is going to have the advantage on time.

So, now with timing out of the way, the final hurdle to having your order manufactured in a U.S. based production facility is price. This is where the rubber meets the road. We see an increasing number of production projects coming back to the U.S.A. However, this is not sustainable without change. The largest economy in the world will quickly overwhelm the current production base in the U.S., thereby driving prices higher and increasing the position of competitors overseas.

The application of technology is the change that must happen in order for the U.S. manufacturing base to gain and retain the work that is coming back to our country from foreign lands. If manufacturing continues to be run as it always has in the past, we will see those gains quickly made then quickly lost. In order to compete on price the U.S. manufacturer must embrace new technology that allows for efficient communication between buyer and production floor, streamline processes that bring jobs direct to the machines making the parts and a production flow that eliminates unnecessary overhead and reduces per part costs in manufacturing.

It is our time to capture the U.S. consumer and the potential represented. But remember that it will come down to price as it has since the beginning of time. What are we doing to compete? Change now or see these gains shipped overseas again.

About Short Run Pro: Short Run Pro provides full service capabilities from web-based engineering drawing services and prototype development to after service medium runs and large production requirements. The proprietary Short Run Pro web application technology provides online engineering design and project administration. Short Run Pro’s quoting application provides pricing and parts specification from the comfort of your chair at the click of a button. Short Run Pro also gives buyers direct access to state-of-the-art manufacturing technology. All production is performed in the USA - on purpose.

Short Run Pro is the leader in custom parts manufacturing. Working with manufacturers throughout the United States, Short Run Pro produces custom parts for everyone from individual homeowners to Fortune 500 companies. For more information, contact Charlie Archer at 704-825-1599 or visit www.shortrunpro.com. For more information, contact Charlie Archer at 704-825-1599 or visit www.shortrunpro.com.

Busy Making Parts - Buy Early in 2012

December 15, 2011 -- Charlotte, NC

In reviewing 2011 it is notable that manufacturing within the United States made some significant headway. A low value on the U.S. Dollar, increasing costs overseas, an increased desire by manufactures to keep inventory values low and cash in the bank high, and a general leaning toward supporting the U.S. economy by its citizens all created a good environment for landing manufacturing business inside the USA.

The stated trend does not appear to be weaning going into 2012. Scott Toal, President at Short Run Pro, sees increased production lead times and a more price savvy manufacturing base as an indication of a continued robust manufacturing status for the U.S. “Normally we are seeing a decline in activity between November 1 and January 1 as manufactures slow production and allow inventories to scale down,” says Mr. Toal, “but this year we are rolling right through December with extended lead times and production activity that shows no sign of slowing.”

With this type of manufacturing environment Mr. Toal suggests that consumers act early in decision making on production. “Waiting on buying decisions will likely mean that project schedules will need to be altered base on the production. That is never a good situation for the buyer or the manufacturer.” Some action points to make buying parts smoother are: • Know what you want when you go to the manufacturer. Have all documentation ready and be able to detail your desired part for the manufacturer. • A dimensioned drawing is always the best way to present your requirement. A picture is worth a thousand words and a part drawing is likely worth 1 weeks time. • Add a buffer to the production lead time quoted. In an environment where part jobs are moving from manufacturer to manufacturer it is difficult to keep a quoted production lead time day to day. It is best to add a little time to the quote time frame so that you are not stuck waiting on the parts. • If the price looks good and you are confident in the manufacturer’s ability to produce your parts, buy. Waiting is only going to allow other opportunities to fill the schedule and bump your job.

Short Run Pro is the leader in custom parts manufacturing. Working with manufacturers throughout the United States, Short Run Pro produces custom parts for everyone from individual homeowners to Fortune 500 companies. For more information, contact Charlie Archer at 704-825-1599 or visitwww.shortrunpro.com. For more information, contact Charlie Archer at 704-825-1599 or visit www.shortrunpro.com.

Thankful for Manufacturing

November 17, 2011 - Charlotte, NC

We are likely a bit biased since we work within the great manufacturing base here in the United States of America. But to be certain we are thankful for the outstanding network of manufacturing floors covering this nation from coast to coast.

The USA is blessed with the most innovative and advanced manufacturing base in the world. Of course there are outstanding manufacturers in other countries. But as a group the U.S. based manufacturers are second to none when it comes to technological improvement, product development and manufacturing process enhancement.

Thanksgiving is a time to thank and praise our heavenly Father for bestowing that which we do not deserve but that He so graciously gives us from His abundance. So we thank God for this great country - the United States of America - and all the manufacturers throughout our land who make this country work. God bless each and every one of you.

Short Run Pro is the leader in custom parts manufacturing. Working with manufacturers throughout the United States, Short Run Pro produces custom parts for everyone from individual homeowners to Fortune 500 companies. For more information, contact Charlie Archer at 704-825-1599 or visit www.shortrunpro.com.

COMING BACK FROM OVERSEAS

October 4, 2011 - Charlotte, NC

As a supplier of custom metal parts and fabrication services, Short Run Pro sees a fair share of original equipment manufacturers’ (OEM) part requests. It is not uncommon for the company to receive quote requests for annual part requirements ranging in the hundreds of thousands.

But the company has noted a trend lately that is encouraging and according to the company’s management is a hopeful trend for the future of U.S. based manufacturing. “We are seeing a lot more part drawings with foreign language title bars and notations,” says Scott Toal, president of Short Run Pro. Mr. Toal continues, “We believe the increase in occurrence of foreign part drawings is an indication that large scale metal productions are moving back to the USA production floors.”

This is good news for Short Run Pro on both a sales level as well as a core value level for the company. It has always been a mission for Short Run Pro to see manufacturing increase within the United States. The company places all its job productions within U.S. based manufacturers. “This is a commitment we started out with and will continue with as long as there are manufacturers within the U.S. to make the parts,” says Cathy Morgan, the company’s operations manager.

At times this commitment has cost the company larger production runs because of low cost labor and availability overseas. But with an increasing number of parts now being produced in the USA, Short Run Pro is seeing larger and more frequent opportunities to place work with manufacturers right here in the United States.

When asked to speculate on why more companies were bringing production back to the United States, Mr. Toal suggested the following reasons, “Costs of material and labor for standard overseas markets are increasing, lack of labor for traditionally low income jobs is pressuring overseas factories to increase production times and sometimes even close their doors and increases in shipping costs and fuel costs are making the prices of parts from overseas similar to the prices for the same parts within the U.S.” Mr. Toal hopes for a time when companies and consumers will choose to have the products they buy made in the USA regardless of price but for now Short Run Pro is thankful for the opportunity to serve a growing number of companies needing to move their metal work back home.

For more information on Short Run Pro visit the company website at www.shortrunpro.com.

Short Run Pro Announces Two New Changes in Staff Positions.

August 18, 2011 -- Charlotte, NC

Short Run Pro is excited to announce the promotion of Charlie Archer to Sales Manager for the Short Run Pro brand and the addition of Rob Cyrier to the companies IT Department as Enterprise Architect.

Mr. Archer is being promoted from a sales associate position with the company to managing sales for the brand. Charlie’s experience in the field of outside sales is an asset that Short Run Pro will enjoy as the company expands its operations and extends its market reach in the field of custom product manufacturing. “Charlie is a key contributor within Short Run Pro’s overall goal of helping people by providing solutions and easing the cumbersome process of custom products procurement,” said Scott Toal, President of the company.

Mr. Cyrier joins Short Run Pro and his brother Ron in the IT department. As a graduate of University of South Carolina and a long time resident of the Charlotte region, Rob loves the area and the company of which he is a partner. “Rob brings a wealth of knowledge in programming and infrastructure development. Short Run Pro looks forward to added operation efficiencies, online application enhancement and a second to none IT development program through Rob’s daily input,” said Scott Toal.

For more information about Short Run Pro, please contact Sales Manager Charlie Archer at carcher@shortrunpro.com or visit their website at www.shortrunpro.com to learn about their company.

SRP Video Manufacturing Series Fully Released

June 30, 2011 -- Charlotte, NC

Short Run Pro has now concluded a twenty part video manufacturing series to better serve their clients. Art Toal, Team Engineer adds, "We are trying to provide some easy to understand answers to questions that we get asked on a daily basis. By understanding how a part is manufactured, you can effectively design it in such a way as to minimize costs. This is how we're trying to help our customers."

Completing a four-month process of posting videos, Short Run Pro is very excited about what this can mean to the manufacturing process. Please check out their Metal Manufacturing Video Channel! Members are ready to discuss with you if you comment on their channel, and users are encouraged to Click, Comment, and Subscribe.

Short Run Pro continues to improve the metal parts procurement process. They are dedicated to providing the easiest and yet most comprehensive online metal fabrication services. The main focus has been and will always be the customer.

Short Run Pro is looking for ways to improve the service and the overall custom metal parts procurement process. Part of that effort is launching this Youtube channel in hopes of reaching the customer base and helping them with their needs.

For more information about this series, please contact Team Engineer Arthur Toal at atoal@shortrunpro.com or visit their website at www.shortrunpro.com to learn about their company.

Here is the Channel Address: Short Run Pro Youtube Channel

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The SRP Manufacturing Series is five-minute video series that hits on these informative topics

Forming vs Welding

Countersinking

Deflection Deformation Test

Tapped Holes

Economy of Fabrication

Material Types

U-Brackets

Forming #1 – What is Forming?

Forming #2 – Design Considerations

Forming #3 – Hole Deformation

Metal Types – Steel & Galvanized

Metal Types –Stainless Steel

Metal Types –Aluminum

Welding Galvanized Steel

Wet Painting V.S. Dry Painting

Pem Nuts

Drawing Views

Weld Types

Material Cutting

Aluminum Supports

Young, But Growing -- Montcross Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

May 22, 2011 -- Gaston, NC

Montcross Area Chamber members and friends helped celebrate the renovation and expansion of new member Short Run Pro on May 11. The growing young business at 52 Ervin Street in Belmont specializes in the design and manufacture of custom fabricated metal parts and products for customers all over the country.

Shown from, left, are chamber chairman-elect Timothy Roberts of Cottage Keepers and Short Run Pro staffers Shannon Kendall, Brandon Jackson, Charlie Archer, Broc Siefert, owner Ron Cyrier, Cathy Morgan, owner Scott Toal, owner DJ Toal, Bonnie Bosch, Arthur Toal, and Victoria White. Chamber board chair Julie Roper of PSNC Energy is at right.

Courtesy of the Gaston Gazette

Short Run Pro's continuing efforts to help construct the border fence.

April 21, 2011 -- Charlotte, NC

Short Run Pro continues its dedication to the U.S.A. by helping with the construction of the countries border fence in the southwest. Working closely with U.S. Government contractors, Short Run Pro is providing manufacturing services that expedite production for this important border security project.

Short Run Pro has worked with colleges, universities and municipalities in addition to the U.S. military and large contractors working on government projects. With its wide range of production capabilities, and the Short Run Pro ordering system that streamlines parts procurement, the company is an excellent resource for large project requirements.

Short Run Pro is now in production on border fence parts that will go into the field within weeks. “Short Run Pro is excited and honored to be a part of the border fence project,” says Scott Toal, President of Short Run Pro. He continues, “It speaks volumes of the quality of our products and services that outstanding companies look towards us for manufacturing solutions.“

KILLARNEY OFFERS SAFETY SCREENS FOR MACHINES

March 21, 2011 -- Charlotte, NC

Killarney Metals, a supplier of safety equipment for home, office and factory, has increased its product selection with new safety screens for machine guarding. The company’s metal safety screens differ from other products on the market in the way they are manufactured and the material thickness. Killarney Metals produces three types of custom machine guards. Standard, Industrial and Heavy Duty Screens are available through the company’s website www.killarneymetals.com.

The different uses of the safety screen styles are dependent on the application. While Standard Duty applications are relevant to keeping people away from the machines, Heavy Duty and Industrial standards prevent against bending should there be a system malfunction where metal parts break apart from the machine.

Timing is everything when it comes to complying with OSHA standards. The Killarney Metals system allows you to streamline your safety guard buying process. You have to comply with these standards to protect employees and people around the machinery and sometimes in a hurry. Killarney Metals is there with the service and products you need to meet the requirements. Also, the screens can be painted standard colors, including safety yellow. Through their Machine Guard Pro Quote system you can get different sizes of machine guards.

SHORT RUN PRO ANNOUNCES A VIDEO MANUFACTURING SERIES WITH ARTHUR TOAL

March 21, 2011 -- Charlotte, NC

Following its sister company, Federal Brace, into video productions is leading to some good buzz from their customers. The weekly five-minute video series hits on everything from galvanized welding to when you should use tapped holes. Over the next four months they have twenty-one topics planned and everyone at Short Run Pro looks forward to your response on their channel. So Click, Comment, and Subscribe. YOUTUBE PAGE!.

Art Toal, Team Engineer adds, "We are trying to provide some easy to understand answers to questions that we get asked on a daily basis. By understanding how a part is manufactured, you can effectively design it in such a way as to minimize costs. This is how we're trying to help our customers."

Short Run Pro continues to improve the metal parts procurement process. They are dedicated to providing the easiest and yet most comprehensive online metal fabrication services. The main focus has been and will always be the customer. They’re looking for ways to improve the service and the overall custom metal parts procurement process. Part of that effort is launching this Youtube channel in hopes of reaching the customer base and helping them with their needs.

SHORT RUN PRO OFFERS THE IDEAL BRACKET SELECTION FOR AN AUDIO/VIDEO SPECIALIST

January 18, 2011 -- Charlotte, NC

Short Run Pro produces a number of custom audio and visual brackets for your needed application. Included in this category of brackets is the camera brackets, speaker mounts, amplifier supports and other audio/video style parts.

The camera bracket is a small mounting bracket, an l-bracket, which fastens your camera to any material that you can bite into. We have speaker mounting brackets that you can attach into walls, cabinets or ceilings. We even have amplifier mount brackets which you can attach to a wall mount or for mounting at a work area.

There are audio/video brackets with mounts and connecting brackets for a variety of equipment, they can be either for a lightweight application or for heavy duty instruments. If a specific design is required, Short Run Pro provides custom made parts to fit the specific need. Contact the company or go to the online design and pricing tool, ProQuote to get your audio & visual custom bracket design moving.

Please check out: Audio/Video Bracket Page.

Design your custom Audio/Video Brackets using our online tool with: Pro Quote.

KILLARNEY METALS CUSTOMIZES DRIP PAN EXPERIENCE

January 18, 2011 -- Charlotte, NC

Killlarney Metals produces a wide selection of light duty, standard duty and heavy duty drip pans. These drip pans are made from aluminum, galvanized steel and stainless steel. All have the unique characteristics that make them Killarney Metal drip pans. The company’s drip pan products are made of thicker material than generally found in the market. As an added step for quality when welding Galvanized pans we take care to coat the weld to prevent corrosion that adds to the life of your drip pan.

If your drip pan requirement involves a size not listed below please contact Killarney Metals customer service to receive a quote on your special need. All drip pan products are made in the United States using quality U.S. base materials and craftsmanship. Oversized products (such as large drip pans over 48” dimensions) may require freight shipment. Please contact customer service for shipping costs when ordering these parts.

Pick one of our pre-configured drip pans or build your own with our Drip Pan Pro Quote..

Killarney Metals here to catch your drip pan needs.

Charlotte, NC - December 21, 2010

Short Run Pro is proud to announce the release of a new brand, Killarney Metals. As a company that is focused on providing solutions to what customers need, the customized drip pan market was an obvious market to get involved. The launch of the new Killarney Metals brand starts with the release of a new website and product line at, www.killarneymetals.com.

Safety is a major issue in today's business and industrial environment. Killarney Metals is the source for safety guards and drip pan products that help companies stay on top of the changing requirements and keeps employees and staff safe from possible injury.

“Killarney Metals provides the security of knowing the part a consumer is buying meets their needs,” says President Scott Toal, “The care and craftsmanship used to make the part ensures a finished product that will stand up the rigorous environment of a factory floor or mechanic shop. All parts and services provided on KillarneyMetals.com are made in the USA.”

So when OSHA requirements must be met immediately, when health concerns or injury risks come to attention and when a new acquisition creates new safety product needs, Killarney Metals is ready to serve with outstanding customer care and the highest quality products. Get more information on this company at the company website, www.killarneymetals.com.

Custom is the New Fulfillment

Charlotte, NC - October 28, 2010

The Internet is a marvelous thing. Having the ability to communicate immediately within a medium that allows for such an abundance of knowledge and information is really changing the way we live. One of the changes most often missed, but oh so affecting brought on by the information age is the impact on manufacturing.

We are quickly going from the age of mass production to a time of individualized production that meets the customer’s specific needs. No longer is it necessary to purchase 10,000 pieces of a standard part that will be useful to everybody and their uncle. Sure the product for everybody is still the proverbial pot of gold at the end of rainbow. But now the discerning consumer is no longer looking for something lined up by the thousands on the store shelf. They want the one of a kind - their own custom product.

And the fantastic thing about it is that because of the Internet the discerning customer is finding fulfillment in their quest. With the plethora of custom production resources like Shortrunpro.com, Spoonflower.com, Ustandard.com and others dealing with all major product categories, the online buyer has a custom selection that is almost endless.

We recently serviced a customer who purchased some plastic file holders that used magnetic strips to attach to metal surfaces. These file holders was purchased from the catalog of a nationwide office supply store. The holders were an imported product that was likely warehoused by the hundreds by the supply store. Unfortunately, after one night the adhesives used to attach the magnetic strip to the plastic container broke bond and the container fell to the floor. The issue results from poor engineering and a weak product made in mass.

Disappointed and frustrated since the plastic tabs broke off on the container making it useless, the customer began searching for a better mousetrap. What they found was more than a mousetrap. They realized after using Short Run Pro’s custom part design application that they could design the exact part that they needed and we could even place their logo on it in laser etching.

It really does not cost that much more to find fulfillment in buying opportunities. Our example customer paid just over 50% more for their custom products than they did for the cheap plastic file holders. But along with the 50% more they received a solid metal holder, self designed, personalized and made entirely in the USA. They learned something too - you get what you pay for and sometimes you don’t have to pay that much more to get exactly what you want, even with a little personalization! The Internet is a marvelous thing indeed.

Increasing Manufacturing in the USA

Charlotte, NC - September 17, 2010

Short Run Pro, a nationwide supplier of metal manufacturing services, has increased its manufacturing capacity with the addition of production facilities in Sidney, Cincinnati and Cleveland, Ohio.

Application of new technologies and advanced manufacturing processes allow consumers to get almost anything customized or personalized. From coffee mugs with personal pictures on them to cars designed particularly to individual automotive desires, consumers have customizable options on almost any product.

The addition of these production facilities increases the production capacity of the company by 33 percent and enhances the fabrication services provided. The company’s intention in adding these three new operations to the list of fabrication floors is to help with reducing production timeframe and to enhance the companies depth in laser cutting, forming and welding operations.

Fabrication jobs are already being routed through these production facilities at volume as the popularity and knowledge of the company’s nationwide custom fabrication services grows.

The Custom Nation - Custom Metal Parts

Charlotte, NC - August 6, 2010

Application of new technologies and advanced manufacturing processes allow consumers to get almost anything customized or personalized. From coffee mugs with personal pictures on them to cars designed particularly to individual automotive desires, consumers have customizable options on almost any product.

The level of available customization is dependent on the consumers’ expectations and the manufacturing capabilities within a particular product market. For example, the introduction of organic produce and meats may be considered a move toward customization. Within the food supply market there are other illustrations of more specific customization but probably none more comprehensive than organics. A produce grown to best suit personal preference is indeed customizing the experience and expectations of the customer.

A more detailed customization is found in the Mini®, a favorite pint sized vehicle. Customization provided within this automaker’s model allows for customizing a product within certain parameters or select options. While the customer may not be able to get their product with every variation thinkable, the product options allow for enough personalization to satisfy the customer’s perception that they are “designing” a car unique among the universe of cars.

The most comprehensive forms of customization available can be found in services that allow the customer to create directly out of their “mind’s eye”. Prototyping, concept to product and other customization services essentially make custom in its truest sense. An example of this type of service is found at Short Run Pro, a provider of custom parts and manufacturing services. The company’s website facilitates the submission of conceptual design sketches and proceeds from quoting the concept through production drawing to a finished product shipped to the customer’s door. The level of customization with this type of service is only bound by the limits of equipment capabilities.

As the consumer base continues to develop greater proficiency on the Internet the distance between the customer and production floor shortens. As this distance shortens there becomes more efficient communication and more streamline transaction. With the void between the consumer and manufacturer eliminated a truer understanding of the desires on the one side and the means to accommodate on the other will lead to a greater level of customization. Welcome to the Custom Nation.

Independence Is Work

Charlotte, NC - July 2, 2010

The word independence brings up visions of the stars and stripes waving majestically in the wind, of brave men and women risking their lives on foreign soil to preserve freedom for others and visionary leaders standing against powerful rulers in pursuit of happiness that only comes when one is free and a nation independent.

There are other illustrations of independence that do not come to mind as readily but still reflect the sense and the virtue of the word independence. In light of these other illustrations I would like to both thank and celebrate the American worker.

The workforce of the United States has been responsible for some of the most extraordinary accomplishments in man’s history. The imagination and diligent application of independence active in American workers has contributed to the betterment of life for populations all over the world. Consider the revolutionizing of mass production assembly lines that put out the Ford Model T at a price affordable for the “workingman”. Think about the awe inspiring increase in production during war time 1940’s when the USA increased Gross Domestic Product each year and produced more than all axis countries combined. Our great workforce has shown again and again the ability to both hunker down and rise to the occasion.

We have not stopped being independent and we will not stop working. Some may think that the workforce of the U.S. has taken the back seat to workers in other countries. The evidence contradicts this thinking. As continued advancements are made in all areas affecting the way people live, the independent spirit of the American worker continues to lead the way. We introduced the world to duct tape, made the air conditioner safe, affordable and portable, with NASA we accomplished the Space Shuttle system and continued to the successful development of the Mars Rover. The American workforce has been the power behind countless advancement and we will likely be in the lead of bringing the next great breakthroughs realized by man.

In my line of work I often have the opportunity to walk fabrication and metal machining production floors where I truly see the greatness of our country and the independence it nurtures displayed. It can be seen in the faces of the welders with blackened shirts that carry the residue of their trade. It is captured in the hands of the machinists who thoroughly inspect the finished part for imperfection before sending it down the production line. The actions of managers with rolled up sleeves getting in elbow deep on a project to assist in its completion show the character of every virtuous moment in our nation’s history. There are countless other illustrations in the American workforce that shine with brilliant light on a grateful people that love the land in which they live. While celebrating our independence on the upcoming 4th of July, the 236th celebrated in this great nation of the United States of America, let’s remember to think of the American worker along with all the other heroic figures brought to memory. The building and sustaining of our great nation and its freedom is written indelibly in the words “Made in the USA”.

Red, White and Blue and Greener Metal Manufacturing Process

Charlotte, NC - April 27, 2010

How often do we run into just the right part for the job at the local hardware store or even big box stores? That would be rarely. But one company is now offering a solution to the problem.

Short Run Pro, a total online metal manufacturing resource, has a system that allows customers of all sizes and with any order quantities to easily get a quote and place their order with minimal effort. Customers with a specialized need for a custom bracket can make a sketch or mock drawing with dimensions marked and the rest is handled for them directly through the company’s website at www.shortrunpro.com .

The system is fast with immediate pricing on simple parts and replies in less than 24 hours to more complex quotes. Once pricing is submitted and accepted the Short Run Pro system kicks in to provide a mechanical drawing for approval and handles the manufacturing and shipment with little to no interaction needed. The customer is kept up to date with emails at various stages of the process.

One key advantage in using Short Run Pro’s system is that all of the manufacturing is done in the United States. A customer in Maine can have their brackets manufactured on a production floor in Indiana with the click of their mouse. This is the company’s mission – to support U.S. based jobs while bringing every customer closer to the production floors within the USA. As stated by the President of Short Run Pro, Scott Toal, “Every time we can provide that perfect part to the end user through a U.S. based manufacturer we keep another project from being altered to fit a cheap bracket manufactured overseas.”

Another advantage to the Short Run Pro method is the fact that the entire process is nearly paperless. Even something like metal manufacturing becomes greener. Parts drawings are retained in the company’s database for future reference so place the next order is even quicker and easier.

Start your next project with Short Run Pro. Customers with a custom metal part need can get a free quote here.

Short Run Pro Adds User Specific Web Pages for Customized User Experience

Charlotte, NC - September 15, 2009

Short Run Pro, a nationwide supplier of metal manufacturing services, today announced the release of its new online Short Run Pro user experience. The new website features user pages with resources and quoting services tailored to users’ expertise and experience. The new service streamlines the quoting and designing process with pages for engineers, designers & architects, business and management professionals, purchasing agents, and end users.

The new user pages make finding the information for designing and completing any project straightforward and hassle-free. “Our customers have been excited and appreciative of Short Run Pro’s new site design,” said Scott Toal, president of the Short Run Pro. “Easy access to their part drawings for collaboration and ordering purposes helps save time and money. Add in Short Run Pro’s offering of valuable design and pricing tools and you have a truly effective online resource.”

The website also provides a new service – the Short Run Pro Account Assistant. The Account Assistant allows customers to track orders, view quotes, bookmark parts, and further customize the Short Run Pro shopping experience.

While the Short Run Pro user pages are designed with applications for different customers in mind, Short Run Pro can accommodate any customer with any type of metal fabrication project. View Short Run Pro’s main site and user pages at www.shortrunpro.com.

Short Run Pro Releases New Online Bracket Quoting Platform for Immediate Design and Pricing of PCI Brackets and Computer Mounts

Charlotte, NC – June 1, 2009

Short Run Pro, a nationwide supplier of metal manufacturing services, today announced the release of its Computer Bracket site particularly designed with suppliers and end users of computer mounting and assembly parts in mind. The new site features an online PCI bracket design and quoting application called PCI Bracket ProQuote.

“Our new design platform was created specifically for the PCI, EISA and ISA bracket market,” said Ron Cyrier, CTO of Short Run Pro. “This online application takes the complexities of design and pricing involved in quoting a PCI bracket and simply streamlines the process giving the customer the information they need immediately.”

While the new PCI Bracket ProQuote is built on some standardization in PCI bracket specifications, Short Run Pro is not limited to only brackets that can be quoted on the application. “Total customization is possible.”

Also found on Short Run Pro’s computer bracket site are custom computer mounting solutions and server rack shelving and parts. View Short Run Pro’s computer bracket site at www.shortrunpro.com/computerbrackets.

About Short Run Pro

Short Run Pro provides fabrication, machining and stamping services nationwide to small, medium and large corporations as well as consumers. Through development of the ProQuote system, an online design and quoting application available on its website, Short Run Pro has simplified the custom parts buying process. For more information contact us at 704-825-1599 or visit www.shortrunpro.com.

Custom Computer Bracket Pro Quote Released!

Febuary 12, 2009

The first major addition to our new Computer Bracket site, the Custom Computer Bracket Proquote brings our great proquote service to PCI, EISA and Low-Profile brackets. However, the major change is that you can choose your bracket type, what hole types and tab sizes you'd like to include and where you want to place them, then you see the changes in real time! A scaled graphic will represent your Bracket's apperance and hole positions, giving you the ability to modify the bracking for your needs in real time then send it in for a quote as you do with regular Pro Quote.

This is just another great service you've come to expect from Short Rup Pro and can try it out at:
www.shortrunpro.com/srp_proquotecustomcomputerbrackets.aspx

Short Run Pro's New Computer Bracket Site

December 16, 2008

Today Short Run Pro released a new computer bracket site that services the need for customized computer mounting, server rack and pc card brackets. The new site features an inventory of PCI and EISA bracket designs, as well as special mounting brackets for computers and computer accessories. In upcoming development to be released on the computer bracket site shortly, SRP will implement its ProQuote design and quoting application with a module specifically created for designing and quoting pc card brackets (PCI, EISA, ISA and low profile).

You can visit SRP's new computer bracket site at www.shortrunpro.com/computerbrackets and view the variety of mounting and pc card brackets.

Additional Metal Fabrication at Short Run Pro

October 24, 2008

In its continuing effort to bring the high quality Made in USA metal products to the US consumer and equipment manufacturer, Short Run Pro is proud to announce that we have added a new production facility locate in America’s heartland. This metal manufacturing operation is located just outside of Cleveland, Ohio and specializes in metal fabrication with particular expertise using the roller for rolling metal of all thicknesses. With the addition of this metal fabrication facility Short Run Pro increases its manufacturing capacity by 20,000 sqft. of production floor and an operation with over 25 years of experience in metal fabrication.

“It is always helpful to our sales department when we are able to add a quality fabrication operation to our list of available resources. We have the opportunity to quote reduced lead times and still provide the highest of quality parts made right here in the United States. I love it!”, Arthur Toal, Director of Sales and Estimating with Short Run Pro. If you are looking for quality metal parts manufactured here in the USA please contact our sales department toll free 877-829-9293 or visit our website at www.shortrunpro.com.

Short Run Pro Releases New Online Countertop Bracket Design Center

July 28, 2008

Short Run Pro continues to widen its selection of countertop brackets and strengthen its presents in the countertop support products market. With the release of the company’s new online Countertop Bracket Design Center, Short Run Pro presents to designers, builders and homeowners the company’s most popular countertop support designs in one online location. The new online design center is specifically designed for the countertop support buyers and products used in supporting kitchen, bath and other countertop projects.

"Our new online Countertop Bracket Design Center supplies the online shopper with the information and product selection they desire while continuing the ease of modification, customization and online buying always experienced at www.shortrunpro.com.”, said Scott Toal, President of Short Run Pro. The Countertop Bracket Design Center provides the user with the ability to view support specification and drawings. It also allows for modification of the popular countertop bracket designs to meet project requirements.

Visit Short Run Pro's New Countertop Bracket Design Center at www.shortrunpro.com/CountertopBracketsDefault.aspx to view the full selection of Short Run Pro countertop brackets.

A Home for SRP's Metal Machining Services

April 14, 2008

Short Run Pro added to its website www.shortrunpro.com a new area particularly designed for custom metal machining services. SRP offers comprehesive machining services with capabilities including metal turning, milling, grinding and OD grinding. Short Run Pro has state of the art metal machining equipment such as measuring machines, metal lathes, cylinderical grinders, VMC machining centers, CNC lathes, horizontal and vertical machining centers.

To visit Short Run Pro's metal machining services website, Click Here For Metal Machining Services. Of course just like our metal fabrication services, Short Run Pro Machining Services are provided to ISO 9001:2008 certification standards and with the best customer service in the indiustry. If you have been looking for a complete supplier of metal processing and manufacturing services, your search is over. Let Short Run Pro show you what we can do. We look forward to serving you metal (machined and fabrication) needs. .

Visit Short Run Pro's website: www.shortrunpro.com to view product information, capabilities and get quotes on your metal fabricated and/or machined parts.

More Machining Operations Available at Short Run Pro

June 6, 2008

Today Short Run Pro increased the capabilities by adding a 15,000 square foot operation to its list of machining facilities. The Pennsylvania based operation has significant experience and expertise in tooling and metal manufacturing with years of service in the automotive, electrical, medical, defense and telecommunications fields. “Short Run Pro is excited about the opportunities this new production operation opens up to our customers. This will strengthen our small run capabilities and reinforce our competence in manufacturing complicated metal parts”, said Scott Toal, Director of Operations for Short Run Pro.

Visit Short Run Pro's website: www.shortrunpro.com to view product information, capabilities and get quotes on your metal fabricated and/or machined parts. To visit the Machining Site Click Here

A New Look and More Functionality

October 15, 2007

Today the IT department at Short Run Pro released the largest, most comprehensive website overhaul in SRP's history. The revisions included in this release enhanced the overall appearance of the site, improved the navigation of pages and applications and added a "ton" of functionality to the already cutting edge Pro Quote system.

Short Run Pro's website, at www.shortrunpro.com incorporates the most effective and comprehensive custom metal products quoting application available on the Internet. The Pro Quote system created by the IT gurus at Short Run Pro allows a customer to create a customized design quickly using standard shapes and then adding their custom specification to finish the part. The system provides pricing on the completed metal part design and allows the customer to quickly purchase their product. Once the order is placed, Short Run Pro goes to work fabricating and/or machining the metal parts to ISO 9001:2008 standards and ships the product direct to the customer. Hassle free, saving time and money - Short Run Pro is revolutionizing the way custom metal products are purchased.

Visit Short Run Pro's website: www.shortrunpro.com to view product information, capabilities and get quotes on your metal fabricated and/or machined parts.

Short Run Pro Adds More Production Capacity

October 1, 2007

The production floor at Short Run Pro continues to grow. Today the company increased production capacity by adding another 30,000 square foot metal fabrication facility to its production stream. This operation, located in Indiana, brings an additional 2 metal laser cutters (4000W and 3200W) and more forming and welding capacity. According to Bruce Toal, Director of Vendor Relations, "The addition of this metal fabrication operation to Short Run Pro's list of production partners decreases order turn around time and strengthens the company's capabilities and metal manufacturing capacities. This is another step toward SRP becoming the most comprehensive resource for customized metal products with the shortest production time in the business."

Visit Short Run Pro's website: www.shortrunpro.com to view product information, capabilities and get quotes on your metal fabricated and/or machined parts.

SRP Countertop Brackets Featured in Countertop Business

September 4, 2007

Short Run Pro's hidden (L Bracket) and gusseted countertop brackets received a write up in this month's volume of Countertop Business Magazine. Noted in the article were the key advantages provided by our hidden, non-gusseted, counter top supports such as floating countertop appearance and increased leg room under the counters.

To view the entire article Click Here and view page 7, " Supporting Role".

Metal Part Finishings Added to Pro Quote System

June 5, 2007

The Pro Quote system for quoting metal fabricated parts was updated today by the programmers at Short Run Pro, a leader in metal fabrication. A metal parts finishing module was added to the quoting system that allows the customer to include with their metal fabrication quote the cost of custom finishing the metal product.

Metal finishing options include electrostatic powder coat finishing ( in several colors including gloss and flat paints ), wet paint ( in several colors including gloss and safety colors ), black oxide and zinc plating.

SRP Now Providing Machined Metal Parts

June 4, 2007

Short Run Pro added metal machining capabilities through a 23,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Ohio, USA. Through this new machining operation SRP now provides services including machining of small and large metal parts, full 4 axis machining, design of metal dies and special machines, NC programming, parts certification and point data output on metal parts - a complete solution for metal machining of parts and components.

"The addition of metal machining to Short Run Pro's inventory of capabilities greatly benefit our OEM customer base by allowing a broader range metal manufacturing and providing a more complete package in terms of part manufacturing" said Bruce Toal, Director of Vendor Relations for Short Run Pro.

Visit Short Run Pro's website: www.shortrunpro.com to view product information, capabilities and get quotes on your metal fabricated and/or machined parts.

Short Run Pro Offers the New Pro Draw Service

Nov 15, 2006

Short Run Pro, a leader in metal parts fabrication, launched the Pro Draw service on the company’s website www.shortrunpro.com.

This new online service allows users to upload sketches of their desired part, component and/or complete assembly in any format for submittal to SRP’s drafting department. Once received Short Run Pro creates 3D model, CAD and 2D engineering drawings of the customer’s product. Turn around of the Pro Drawing service is an amazing 24 to 48 hours.

The system further gives the user the ability to inspect the drawing and submit for correction if necessary. “The Pro Draw system gives our company the ability to outsource the time consuming and often expensive task of creating drafts of our parts. The online application is simple to use and quick to provide the finished drawing” said Jeff Daum of Rotary Compression Technology.

Short Run Pro Launches Pro Quote System

March 1, 2006

Today Short Run Pro (SRP) launched their new web based quoting system on the company’s website www.shortrunpro.com. The Pro Quote system was developed by SRP’s programming gurus to automate and deliver quotes based upon metal part design specifications entered into the selected quoting fields.

“We are excited about the launch of SRP’s new Pro Quote system. This web based tool will assist buyers by streamlining metal part design, quoting and ordering” said DJ Toal, Director of Marketing for Short Run Pro.

The initial launch of the Pro Quote system is considered a beta release and continued development will result in added functionality and a more robust metal parts design aspect to the tool.