Leveraging Technology

Until four years ago, MJM had twenty two accounts, and recently this number started to grow exponentially. This was due to the use of technology, specifically search engine optimization (SEO) marketing and social networking. However, ICT was integrated into the company over the last twenty one years. This is the major difference between this company and a similar company in Trinidad and Tobago that the IIEM students visited. An additional difference is the manner in which they embrace change. This factor is clearly highlighted in many of the examples given by the company such as the focus on SEO marketing and development of downstream industries, including a rack company. The machinery and plant layout are similar between the Trinidad company and MJM.

The factor attributing to the acceptance of technology by MJM is due to the time the company was exposed to it. MJM started using an IT manufacturing control system twenty one years ago; only nine years after the company was started. In this regard, the company was now establishing themselves and was willing to embrace new practices. Many operations in the SME sector in T&T do not have access to technology at start up, and when at later stages, younger minds attempt to introduce it, there is resistance to alter long established traditions. This is now seen as critical for survival in the current global market.

We saw energy, enthusiasm and openness to change at MJM – all of which were essential ingredients in their recipe for success.

Authors: Davina, Rishi and Makesi Photo: Abigail Liverpool