April 13/20, 2015; Volume 29/Number 1
By Nadia Ramlakhan
The culture at Moldings Online, a top manufacturer of moldings and flooring accessories, can be described in one word—one Japanese word, specifically. “Kaizen” means “change for the better” and is one of the main philosophies on which the company is run. As an organization Moldings Online strives for continuous improvement and uses Kaizen practices to analyze internal processes and remove waste, essentially creating faster and more efficient work methods.
Between regularly scheduled meetings and consistently coming up with innovative ideas, the entire team works together to implement changes. “We take the time to see what’s working and not working,” said Cassie Alverson, marketing manager. “It also brings experiences from different departments into the same room.”
Kaizen initiatives can focus on multiple topics ranging from machinery and equipment to marketing and sales. In order to streamline the process, employees dissect a particular issue, understand its current state and develop strategies to improve it going forward. While these events often result in a smoother production flow, they also create an easier experience for customers.
Another major component of the company’s continuous improvement is its ability to adapt to customers’ changing needs. “We have to continually evolve with our customers,” Alverson noted. “Otherwise we won’t have a business. Understanding our customers, who they are, how they’re wired, helps us do what we do.”
Veronica Ventimiglia, marketing manager, Johnson Hardwood, agrees. “You don’t see any other molding companies that show up to every major trade show and make sure they’re listening to what customers need.”
In fact, Moldings Online’s most recent introduction, a mini adjustable stair nose for LVT and LVP, was developed based on consumer demand. Due to its size, installers can use it with most floor heights without having to use underlayment. Also new to the company are two wood species: European Oak and Brazilian Pecan.
With more than 150 profiles and 90 species to choose from, Moldings Online is known for having an abundance of unique looks and finishes. “Working with Moldings Online has allowed me to take care of more people,” said Dustin Roller, owner of Interior Technique in San Marcos, Calif. “They’ve given me access to a lot more exotic species.”
The company also recently revamped its website, giving it a fresh look and featuring a short video on the homepage explaining the new features and added benefits. Alverson explained that having an online base gives customers the ability to easily access tracking information, place orders and browse through previous purchases on their own time.
Dealers can access an array of photos in the online catalog and filter search results by color, thickness, style and more. “It’s really a fool-proof way to make sure you don’t run in to any problems,” Roller said. “It’s available 24 hours, so you can order whenever you want.”
Other perks include a learning center complete with product information, installation tips and brochures. “The new site is much faster,” said Jennifer Schmidt, purchasing manager for Nonn’s Flooring, with three locations in Wisconsin. “Everything is really spelled out.”
Moldings Online now offers all kinds of accessories including vents, treads and risers. “In the past dealers have had to go through other channels for other products,” said Denny Leach, president. “Now we’re that one-stop shop.”
Becoming a member is easy, fast and free. For more, visit moldingsonline.com.