- Strong focus on developing design and problem-solving skills.- Curricular connections relate chapter content to math, science, social studies, and language arts.- TSA Modular Activities help prepare students for TSA competitive events.

The materials, processes and management techniques of industry are covered thoroughly in this new edition of Manufacturing Systems. The text discusses the basic elements of the manufacturing enterprise as a system, or managed body of activities. Making use of extensive illustration and colorful graphic design, this 2000 copyright will provide students with a thorough understanding of how the manufacturing enterprise is formed and how it functions. The complementary roles of management and labor are covered in detail. The text consists of 30 chapters arranged in seven sections:

Exploring Manufacturing presents an introductory view of manufacturing as a technological system that converts materials into products. It covers materials and their properties, then presents a variety of manufacturing techniques. This information is applied as the organization and operation of manufacturing enterprises are explored.

The 2000 edition of Exploring Manufacturing introduces manufacturing as a technological system that converts materials into products. After covering materials and their properties, the text presents a variety of manufacturing techniques. Information on the organization and operation of manufacturing enterprises is also explored.

- Academic Links relate chapter content to math, science, social studies, and language arts.- Technology Links between manufacturing and other technologies, such as Agriculture, Communications, Construction, Transportation, and Energy and Power.- Career Links to manufacturing-related careers.

Understanding Technology is designed for middle school introductory technology education courses. The text explains technology, what it is, how it works, and how it affects our lives. Text content centers around the four basic industrial technology systems of manufacturing, construction, communication, and transportation. It introduces students to important topics such as resources, design, production systems, and biorelated systems. This text not only provides students with a basic knowledge of technology, it will help them develop problem-solving abilities, assess and apply technology, and develop communication skills.

- Strong focus on developing design and problem-solving skills.- Curricular connections relate chapter content to math, science, social studies, and language arts.- TSA Modular Activities help prepare students for TSA competitive events.