Figure 8 Material Handling Equipment Value Chain
Different intensity market forces suggest possible differences between the two industry segments in regards to how these activities are performed within the industry’s value chain.
2.3.2
R&D R&D in the material handling equipment industry is performed by equipment
manufacturers only. The major R&D within the industry addresses lowering costs and improving efficiency and performance, and most importantly, improving ergonomic design. In the WE segment of the market, the last factors become extremely important due to increased industry demand for ergonomic equipment, as more companies use it to improve productivity, increase quality, and enhance safety. Ergonomically designed material handling equipment drastically improves ease of operation, enables more efficient use, and decreases on-the-job injuries. The new designs, based on a careful consideration of human factors, are expected to enable operators to work for a minimum of eight hours without injuries or fatigue. Seats, tires, control configuration, and steering
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