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We explore best practices, interview industry leaders, and highlight successful fabricators.
Whether you prefer to watch, read, or listen, we’ve got what you need to take your business to the next level.
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Latest Series
From Good to Great
In this series, fabricators share their experience of moving from analog shop management to digital.
READ
Popular Scheduling Solutions for Countertop Fabricators
There is no one perfect way to run a countertop shop. Each business is unique and has it's own way of doing things. However, the one thing all shops should have is....you guessed it...a process! Whether you've been in the industry for years or just starting out on...
How to get your time back with countertop software
I am finally able to leave work and go spend time with my family! An actual countertop fabricator said that. A few years ago we asked our users how software has helped their business, and their quality of life. The answers were overwhelmingly about the time they were...
Why Onboarding New Software is Important for Busy Countertop Shops
Being a countertop fabricator most likely means that you don't have enough hours in the day to get everything done, let alone improve what you're already doing. Many fabricators are just trying to keep their heads above water! But if you are too busy to function...
Grow Your Countertop Shop With These First Steps
Business is booming in the stone industry! Either you are flooded with new business or you are wanting to be flooded with all that new business. Am I right? Hint: say yes so we can stay friends. Working with fabricators for decades has shown us that growth can be a...
A Quick Guide to Setting Goals For Your Countertop Business
Goals are critical for any business, including the fabrication industry. Without them, it’s like playing a game of darts in a pitch-black room. You keep aiming and throwing, but you have no idea if you’re ever going to hit the bullseye. That’s where KPIs come...
How Often Do You Look at Your Shop’s Numbers?
Many fabricators put their heads down and do the hard work, never getting the chance to look around and ask: where could we be improving? If you’re a growing shop, now is the time to take the time to find out. You can’t set realistic goals and plan for pain-free...
Level Up Your Countertop Quoting with Slab Layouts
Slab layouts are critical in making sure your estimate is accurate. Some fabricators rely on guesswork, some do complex math based on square footage, and others spend hours in CAD for a prospect who may never even spend a dime! None of these are great solutions...
Why Taking Photos of Your Finished Jobs Should Be Part of Your Process
One of the best ways to advertise your business is by showing proof of your craftsmanship. Posting photos of your finished jobs on social media and website is a great way to show new prospects what kind of work you’re capable of. Images can also save you from ornery...
Creating a Work-Life Balance at a Countertop Shop
We talk to many shop owners and managers, and unfortunately, it’s more common than not to be totally and utterly burnt out. Mental exhaustion. Emotionally drained. Never-ending stress. It’s no way to live, but it’s the norm in our low-margin, high-speed industry....
Ask the right questions when buying quoting software.
LISTEN
StoneTalk Episode 44 – Evan Kruger
In StoneTalk Episode 44, Patrick speaks with Evan Kruger of Solid Tops. Listen to this episode to learn more about: The importance of differentiating your business The difference between big box stores and selling direct to customers The value of focusing your...
StoneTalk Episode 43 – Rich Katzmann
In StoneTalk Episode 43, Patrick speaks with Rich Katzmann of Laser Products. Listen to this episode to learn more about: The importance of having passion for your work The value of combining creativity and business sense How to connect the dots in the digital...
StoneTalk Episode 42 – Scott Lardner
In StoneTalk Episode 42, Patrick speaks with Scott Lardner of Rocky Mountain Stone. Listen to this episode to learn more about: The joy of working with family How to succeed in an area where the population is spread out When it can be useful to downsize The importance...
StoneTalk Episode 41 – Ryan Olson & Dan O’Keefe
In StoneTalk Episode 41, Patrick speaks with Ryan Olson & Dan O'Keefe of Job Well Done. Listen to this episode to learn more about: The value of helping field workers get targeted information Making it easier to take before/after photos Getting electronic...
StoneTalk Episode 40 – Jon Lancto
In StoneTalk Episode 40, Patrick speaks with Jon Lancto of Artisan Group and MIA. Listen to this episode to learn more about: Sharing best practices and buying power across companies The trend toward paperless A simple way to reconcile inventory Ever increasing...
StoneTalk Episode 39 – Mike Schlough and Rob Bromley
In StoneTalk Episode 39, Patrick speaks with Mike Schlough (Co-President) and Rob Bromley (Sales Consultant) of Park Industries. We're big fans of Park's "digital expos" - so be sure to attend one if you get the chance. Listen to this episode to learn more about: What...
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