We interviewed Scott Wiley, industrial production line manager for Akro-Mils on their new double-sided benchtop spinner rack.
BK: Why did Akro-Mils decide to market this particular rack?
SW: Akro-Mils’ Double-Sided Benchtop Spinner Rack allows for additional storage where space is at a premium. Using the Spinner Rack leaves the majority of the table space for the job at hand.
BK: How is this rack different from similar products?
SW: This rack combines the convenience and strength of a louvered panel with the utility of a compact tabletop storage application. As opposed to a bench rack, this unit can easily be moved if needed.
BK: What problems did you encounter during the development process?
SW: There were no real issues or concerns. This type of louvered rack product is a category we produce daily and are proficient in. We worked to keep the overall cost down to make this an affordable solution for our customers
BK: How long did it take from conception to final production?
SW: Product from ideation to commercialization took about three months, including prototyping, and evaluation and testing.
BK: Did cost factors play a role in changing the final design of this product?
SW: No changes were made in design due to costing—materials and components used were considered in up-front design and creation.
BK: Who do you consider your target audience to be and what benefits will they realize from using this product?
SW: The target audience includes organizations seeking storage solutions in industrial and medical settings, retail, general maintenance and tool cribs, and storerooms. This product is ideal for 5S Lean initiatives.