It is no secret that engineering plays an extremely important part in manufacturing success. In the last few months, U.S. engineers have developed a number of techniques and products that will move many industries forward, according to the Association for Manufacturing Excellence. Recent engineering developments include rapid-prototyping kidneys and other human tissue for the medical industry; a gas-turbine engine inside a silicon chip the size of a quarter, which could run 10 times longer than a battery of similar weight and power laptops, cell phones and other electronic devices; a new optical technique that virtually tests the quality of beer or anything with a smell or taste; and the world's first hybrid silicon laser, which will help eliminate one of the last major barriers to producing low-cost, high-bandwidth silicon devices for future computers.

Unorganized processes and poor procedures, however, can stifle a company's ability to succeed with the new products and techniques its engineers develop. Two of the columns in this issue explain how companies can ensure they benefit as much as possible from their development and processes.

In “Lean Products,” Michael J. Harmon and John T. Kelley discuss how creativity and innovation can be fostered by developing specific best practices for certain applications. In a guest column on process innovation, John Hubbs how explains manufacturing firms can realize growth and remain competitive by finding innovations in their processes - not just in product development.

Engineers and all employees, customers and shareholders can help companies determine the best ways to implement changes in their processes. As a result, the marketplace will continue to benefit from new and innovative products and techniques.