การออกแบบตกแต่งโรงงานเพื่อเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพการผลิต

การออกแบบตกแต่งโรงงานเป็นกระบวนการที่สำคัญในการเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพและความมีเสถียรภาพของการผลิตในอุตสาหกรรมส่งเสริมให้กลุ่มธุรกิจมีการดำเนินงานอย่างมีประสิทธิภาพและเป็นไปตามเป้าหมายทางธุรกิจของตน นอกจากนี้ยังช่วยเพิ่มคุณภาพผลิตภัณฑ์และลดต้นทุนในกระบวนการผลิตด้วย ในบทความนี้เราจะสำรวจหลักการออกแบบตกแต่งโรงงานที่เน้นการเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพการผลิตเพื่อให้คุณเข้าใจและสามารถนำไปปรับใช้ในองค์กรของคุณได้เอง

  1. ศึกษาและทำความเข้าใจถึงกระบวนการผลิต: เพื่อเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพการผลิตในโรงงานของคุณ คุณควรศึกษาและทำความเข้าใจถึงกระบวนการผลิตที่อยู่ในโรงงานของคุณ ซึ่งรวมถึงการวิเคราะห์และประเมินปัญหาที่อาจเกิดขึ้น เพื่อที่จะสามารถออกแบบตกแต่งโรงงานให้เหมาะสมกับความต้องการขององค์กร
  2. วางแผนการจัดหาพื้นที่: หลังจากที่คุณเข้าใจกระบวนการผลิตของคุณแล้ว คุณต้องวางแผนการจัดหาพื้นที่ในโรงงานที่เหมาะสมสำหรับการผลิต ควรพิจารณาปัจจัยที่สำคัญเช่น พื้นที่การเคลื่อนที่ระหว่างขั้วการผลิต การจัดวางเครื่องจักรและการจัดสรรพื้นที่สำหรับวัตถุดิบและสินค้าสำเร็จรูป
  3. ใช้เทคโนโลยีอัตโนมัติ: เทคโนโลยีอัตโนมัติเป็นเครื่องมือที่สำคัญในการเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพการผลิต การใช้ระบบอัตโนมัติในกระบวนการผลิตจะช่วยลดเวลาและความผิดพลาดที่เกิดขึ้น รวมถึงเพิ่มความสามารถในการปรับแต่งกระบวนการผลิตตามความต้องการของตลาด
  4. การจัดวางเครื่องจักร: การจัดวางเครื่องจักรในโรงงานเป็นสิ่งสำคัญที่ควรพิจารณา คุณควรจัดเครื่องจักรให้เป็นระเบียบเรียบร้อยเพื่อลดเวลาในการขนย้ายวัตถุดิบและสินค้าสำเร็จรูป นอกจากนี้คุณยังควรพิจารณาปัจจัยอื่น ๆ เช่น การเพิ่มเครื่องจักรเพื่อเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพ การใช้ระบบควบคุมอัตโนมัติ และการเลือกใช้เครื่องจักรที่มีการบำรุงรักษาง่าย
  5. ใช้กระบวนการ Lean Manufacturing: กระบวนการ Lean Manufacturing เป็นกระบวนการที่ช่วยลดสิ่งที่ไม่มีคุณค่าและลดการสูญเสียในกระบวนการผลิต คุณสามารถนำหลักการ Lean Manufacturing มาใช้ในการออกแบบตกแต่งโรงงาน เช่น การตรวจสอบกระบวนการเพื่อหาปัญหาและข้อผิดพลาด การเพิ่มความเร็วในกระบวนการผลิต และการใช้ระบบควบคุมคุณภาพ
  6. พิจารณาความปลอดภัย: ความปลอดภัยเป็นสิ่งสำคัญในการออกแบบตกแต่งโรงงาน คุณควรพิจารณาและประเมินความเสี่ยงที่อาจเกิดขึ้นในกระบวนการผลิต เพื่อตรวจสอบและใช้มาตรการป้องกันเพื่อรักษาความปลอดภัยของพนักงานและสิ่งแวดล้อม
  7. การอัพเกรดเทคโนโลยี: การอัพเกรดเทคโนโลยีเป็นสิ่งสำคัญในการเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพการผลิต คุณควรทำความเข้าใจเกี่ยวกับเทคโนโลยีที่กำลังเป็นที่นิยมในอุตสาหกรรมของคุณ และใช้เทคโนโลยีเหล่านั้นเพื่อเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพการผลิตและลดความผิดพลาดในกระบวนการ
  8. การบริหารจัดการอย่างมีประสิทธิภาพ: การบริหารจัดการเป็นปัจจัยสำคัญในการเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพการผลิต คุณควรใช้ระบบการบริหารจัดการที่มีประสิทธิภาพเพื่อติดตามและปรับปรุงกระบวนการผลิต รวมถึงการใช้วิธีการตรวจสอบและวัดผลเพื่อการพัฒนาต่อไป
  9. การฝึกอบรมและพัฒนาทักษะ: พนักงานที่มีทักษะและความรู้ที่เหมาะสมเป็นส่วนสำคัญในการเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพการผลิต คุณควรพิจารณาให้ความสำคัญกับการฝึกอบรมและพัฒนาทักษะของพนักงานในโรงงาน เพื่อเพิ่มความสามารถในการดำเนินงานและการแก้ไขปัญหาที่เกิดขึ้นในกระบวนการผลิต
  10. การประเมินผลและการปรับปรุง: การประเมินผลและการปรับปรุงเป็นกระบวนการที่สำคัญในการออกแบบตกแต่งโรงงาน เมื่อได้ทำการเปลี่ยนแปลงและปรับปรุงแล้วคุณควรประเมินผลเพื่อวัดความสำเร็จของการออกแบบและตรวจสอบว่ายังคงมีความต้องการในการปรับปรุงต่อไปหรือไม่

การออกแบบตกแต่งโรงงานเพื่อเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพการผลิตเป็นกระบวนการที่มีความสำคัญในการพัฒนาและปรับปรุงธุรกิจ คุณควรทำความเข้าใจในกระบวนการผลิตของคุณและใช้หลักการที่กล่าวถึงในบทความนี้เพื่อเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพและความสำเร็จในการผลิตของคุณ ด้วยการออกแบบตกแต่งที่เหมาะสม คุณสามารถเพิ่มความมั่นคงและความสามารถในการแข่งขันในตลาดได้อย่างมีประสิทธิภาพเช่นกัน

Maximizing Small Spaces: Creative Solutions for Compact Interiors

Living in small spaces has become a reality for many people, and making the most of every square inch has become essential. In this article, we explore the world of compact interiors and offer creative solutions for maximizing small spaces. From smart furniture choices to clever storage solutions and strategic design tips, get ready to transform your compact living areas into functional, stylish, and inviting havens.

1. Embracing Minimalism

When dealing with limited space, embracing minimalism is a powerful approach. Simplify your living area by decluttering and adopting a less-is-more mentality. Streamline your belongings and prioritize essential items while keeping unnecessary items out of sight. By reducing visual clutter, you create a sense of spaciousness and allow the room to breathe.

2. Smart Furniture Choices

Choosing the right furniture is crucial in maximizing small spaces. Opt for multifunctional pieces that serve multiple purposes, such as sofa beds, nesting tables, or ottomans with hidden storage. Select furniture with a compact footprint to avoid overwhelming the space. Consider foldable or expandable options that can be easily tucked away when not in use. By selecting furniture with dual functionality, you maximize both style and practicality.

 

3. Utilizing Vertical Space

One of the most effective ways to maximize small spaces is by utilizing vertical space. Install tall shelving units or bookcases to take advantage of the height of the room. Use wall-mounted storage solutions, such as floating shelves or hanging organizers, to keep items off the floor and create visual interest. Vertical storage not only frees up valuable floor space but also draws the eye upward, creating an illusion of a larger area.

 

4. Creative Storage Solutions

In compact interiors, storage is key. Explore creative storage solutions to make the most of every nook and cranny. Utilize under-bed storage boxes, invest in furniture with built-in storage compartments, or utilize space-saving organizers, such as hanging shoe racks or over-the-door hooks. Think outside the box and repurpose everyday items for storage, such as using vintage suitcases as coffee tables with hidden storage inside.

 

5. Strategic Design Tips

Strategic design choices can greatly impact the perception of space in small interiors. Opt for light and neutral colors on walls and floors to create an airy and open feel. Use mirrors strategically to reflect light and give the illusion of a larger area. Incorporate natural light as much as possible and choose sheer window coverings to allow maximum light penetration. Additionally, consider open shelving instead of closed cabinets to maintain an open and spacious atmosphere.

 

Maximizing small spaces requires creativity, resourcefulness, and a thoughtful approach to design. By embracing minimalism, choosing smart furniture, utilizing vertical space, implementing creative storage solutions, and employing strategic design tips, you can transform compact interiors into functional and visually appealing living spaces. With the right mindset and innovative solutions, small doesn’t have to mean cramped.

Bold and Vibrant: Exploring the World of Colorful Interiors

In the world of interior design, color plays a vital role in creating unique and visually appealing spaces. While neutral tones have long dominated interior trends, there is a growing appreciation for bold and vibrant color schemes. This article dives into the captivating world of colorful interiors, exploring the psychology behind different hues and providing inspiration on how to incorporate them into your home. Prepare to unleash your creativity and transform your living spaces into vibrant havens of self-expression.

1.The Power of Color

Color has a profound impact on our emotions and can significantly influence our mood and behavior. Understanding the psychology of color is essential when designing vibrant interiors. Warm tones like red, orange, and yellow evoke energy and excitement, while cooler hues like blue and green promote calmness and relaxation. By strategically using different colors, you can create spaces that evoke the desired atmosphere and reflect your personality.

 

2. Choosing a Color Palette

When venturing into the world of colorful interiors, it’s crucial to establish a cohesive color palette. Start by selecting a dominant color that sets the tone for the room. Consider complementary hues and experiment with different shades to create a harmonious combination. Remember, there are no strict rules when it comes to color; trust your instincts and opt for shades that resonate with you. To strike a balance, incorporate neutral elements to prevent overwhelming the space.

 

3. Making a Statement with Furniture

Colorful interiors offer an excellent opportunity to make bold statements through furniture choices. Consider investing in vibrant sofas, chairs, or accent pieces that serve as focal points in your space. Opt for unique patterns or upholster furniture in eye-catching colors to infuse personality and liveliness. However, be mindful of balance and avoid overcrowding the room with too many statement pieces. Let your furniture choices shine while maintaining a cohesive overall look.

 

4. Energizing Walls and Floors

Walls and floors present vast canvas opportunities for injecting color into your interiors. Vibrant wallpaper, striking paint choices, or intricate wall art can breathe life into any room. If you prefer a more subtle approach, consider painting a single accent wall or using colorful tiles in specific areas. Additionally, rugs and carpets with vibrant patterns or colors can add visual interest and tie the room together.

 

5. Accessories and Accents

Accessorizing is the final touch that can elevate your colorful interior design. Introduce pops of color through pillows, throws, curtains, and artwork. These accessories can be easily swapped or rotated to refresh the look and feel of your space without a significant investment. Experiment with mixing and matching different colors and patterns to create a vibrant yet cohesive aesthetic.

 

Bold and vibrant interiors offer a refreshing departure from traditional design trends. By harnessing the power of color, you can create spaces that reflect your personality and evoke desired emotions. Whether you opt for a full-color immersion or prefer a more balanced approach, the world of colorful interiors invites you to explore, experiment, and express yourself through the captivating language of color.

Sustainable Interior Design: Balancing Style and Eco-Friendliness for a Greener Future

In an era of heightened environmental consciousness, sustainable interior design has emerged as a powerful movement. It combines style and functionality with eco-friendly practices to create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also environmentally responsible. In this article, we will delve into the principles and practices of sustainable interior design, exploring how we can strike a perfect balance between style and eco-friendliness to shape a greener future.

Understanding Sustainable Interior Design

Sustainable interior design is a holistic approach that considers the entire lifecycle of a space, from its construction to its daily usage and eventual disposal. It prioritizes the use of environmentally friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable manufacturing processes. By incorporating elements such as recycled materials, renewable resources, and low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) products, sustainable interior design aims to minimize environmental impact and promote healthier living environments.

 

The Benefits of Sustainable Interior Design

Embracing sustainable interior design offers a multitude of benefits. Firstly, it reduces the carbon footprint by conserving energy and minimizing waste. By choosing energy-efficient lighting fixtures, appliances, and HVAC systems, homeowners can significantly reduce their energy consumption and lower utility bills. Secondly, sustainable materials such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, and recycled glass not only contribute to the reduction of deforestation but also add a unique touch of natural beauty to interior spaces. Lastly, sustainable design fosters a healthier indoor environment by reducing the presence of harmful chemicals, improving air quality, and promoting well-being.

 

Strategies for Achieving Sustainable Interior Design

To achieve a harmonious blend of style and eco-friendliness in interior design, several strategies can be employed. Firstly, designers and homeowners should focus on maximizing natural lighting and ventilation to reduce the reliance on artificial lighting and cooling systems. Additionally, incorporating sustainable materials like organic textiles, low VOC paints, and eco-friendly furniture not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also supports responsible sourcing and manufacturing practices. Recycling and upcycling old furniture and décor items not only add character but also minimize waste generation. Furthermore, integrating smart home technology can optimize energy usage by controlling lighting, heating, and cooling systems based on occupancy and natural light levels.

 

Inspiring Examples of Sustainable Interior Design

Numerous inspiring examples showcase the successful integration of sustainable design principles into interior spaces. From incorporating vertical gardens to purify the air and provide natural beauty to using reclaimed materials for flooring and furniture, these examples demonstrate the endless possibilities of sustainable design. Additionally, the utilization of solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient appliances illustrates the commitment to reducing environmental impact while maintaining a stylish aesthetic.

 

Sustainable interior design holds immense potential in creating beautiful, functional, and environmentally responsible spaces. By embracing this approach, we can strike a balance between style and eco-friendliness, contributing to a greener future. Let us prioritize sustainability, inspire change, and embark on a journey towards creating sustainable interiors that promote a healthier planet and a more fulfilling lifestyle.

The Art of Minimalism: Creating Serene Interiors that Transform Spaces

In today’s fast-paced world, minimalism has emerged as a popular interior design style that offers a sense of tranquility and simplicity. This article explores the art of minimalism, guiding readers through the principles and techniques of creating serene interiors that promote clarity, mindfulness, and a harmonious living environment.

1. Understanding Minimalism

Minimalism is more than just a design trend; it is a philosophy that embraces the concept of “less is more.” By eliminating unnecessary clutter and focusing on essential elements, minimalism creates a serene and uncluttered space. Explore the core principles of minimalism, including simplicity, functionality, and intentional design choices.

2. Embracing Neutral Color Palettes

One of the key aspects of minimalistic design is the use of neutral color palettes. Discover how hues like whites, grays, beiges, and muted tones can create a serene ambiance. Learn how to strike a balance between light and dark shades, and explore the impact of natural light on the overall atmosphere of minimalistic spaces.

3. Streamlined Furniture and Essential Elements

Minimalism prioritizes clean lines, sleek furniture, and purposeful design. Explore the world of minimalist furniture and discover how to choose pieces that align with the principles of minimalism. From decluttering techniques to selecting functional furniture, find ways to create a sense of calm and openness within your living spaces.

4. Decluttering and Organization

Minimalism encourages a clutter-free environment that promotes mental clarity. Learn effective decluttering techniques and organization strategies to create serene interiors. Explore minimalist storage solutions, such as hidden storage compartments and multi-functional furniture, that help maintain a clean and uncluttered aesthetic.

5. Negative Space and Balance

Negative space, also known as empty or open space, plays a crucial role in minimalistic design. Discover how to use negative space strategically to create a sense of balance, harmony, and visual calmness. Explore techniques for arranging furniture, artwork, and décor to achieve a minimalist aesthetic with a focus on negative space.

6. Mindful Material Choices

The materials used in minimalist interiors contribute to the overall serene ambiance. Explore natural materials like wood, stone, and metal, and learn how to incorporate them in a way that complements the minimalist style. Discover the importance of quality over quantity when it comes to selecting materials for furniture, flooring, and finishes.

7. Functional Lighting Design

Lighting is a crucial element in minimalistic spaces, setting the mood and enhancing the overall tranquility. Explore the role of natural and artificial lighting in minimalist interiors. Discover different lighting techniques and fixtures that can create a soothing and serene atmosphere while maintaining functionality.

Creating serene interiors through the art of minimalism is about embracing simplicity, intentional design choices, and the promotion of tranquility. By incorporating the principles discussed in this article, you can transform your living spaces into havens of serenity that evoke a sense of calm and balance in your daily life. Embrace minimalism and experience the transformative power it holds.

7 Golden rules for factory

Architect Richard Wooldridge offers his top tips to manufacturers for new-build factory design and how 
           to work with factory and manufacturing architects.

1. Listen carefully

This is the vital first stage of any project and often  where the best ideas will flow from. Only by truly listening to the client and understanding their objectives will the final design, and ultimately the building itself, be fit the for the client’s needs. The first week on any project is where trust develops between the client and those involved in the design, so communication is vital.

2. The small details matter

There is a major time investment in these early stages trying to get ‘under the skin’ of the organisation you 
are building for. For example, in the project I have mentioned above I spent six hours locked in a room 
with the client getting some further direction on our initial thoughts and concepts and really nailing down the detail.

3. Get the concept right and the rest will follow

Again this comes from listening to the client and always thinking about how the building needs to perform for them. Of course ideas are incredibly important, but creativity also has to be channelled in the right way, so that your thinking is aligned to the aesthetic and performance objectives of the facility. On the above project, the design for the building took its inspiration from famous landmarks in the locality, as well as the sonar technology being manufactured by the client. However, we never lost our focus on practicality and functionality.

4. Think from a worker’s perspective

Nobody wants to work in a boring space and that’s especially the case in a manufacturing environment 
where productivity is a critical factor for success. It’s important to consider how space and light can be 
used to create a more stimulating environment and how other design details can be used to produce 
more inspiring work surroundings. As industrial architects it’s important to always be thinking from 
the end user’s perspective.

5. Get a complete view

Unlike many other buildings, the sheer scale of some manufacturing buildings means that for factory 
architects like us, it’s even more important to consider the visual impact of the design. To understand just 
how the building will sit in its surroundings we visualise how the building will look from different 
angles, distances and locations, including from the air. As factory architects, this informs our design and 
ensures its visual impact on the environment is minimised.

6. Focus on evolution not revolution

Designing a manufacturing building has many stages and things change as the process moves along. Cost reviews mean certain aspects of a design might change multiple times, so it’s important to always have flexibility built into our plans, so we’re not always going back to square one. Even as the project is underway, the design will have to be refined numerous times.

7. Relationships are the key to successful outcomes

The design is right and planning permission has been granted. Getting to a stage where the final product 
exceeds expectations requires working closely with the client, the contractor, project managers, cost 
consultants and other advisers. The ability to manage relationships with tact, diplomacy and authority is crucial.

4 office design trands

How is you office?

Many people may wonder why our office
can’t decorated like other office that’s 
because it is money or budget and identity
of each company.Most of the design therefore
emphasizes the simple styles cause easy buy
furniture and many colors.

 

Modern style is a popular style of designers and
customers that are simple and good looking.This
style focus color, form furniture and make wall soft
color.Making it a popular style until the present. 

Today minimal is popular style of teenagers
and gained popularity from Japan, Dressed 
style into decorative design which gives emotions
is soft, warm, simple, most unique.Is a nature
color tone using wood texture like pine wood
furniture shape will be rounded,Not use materials
have sharpness in design.

Loft style is a popular design in the cafe’
restaurant is mostly designed real material
texture not close the work surface original
color of the material.Most of ceiling will not
be concealed ceiling but show line wiring 
system has advantages in maintaining the 
system.When you build should be requires
a skilled technician to make system.This style
is so popular for office that needs coolness and
doesn’t have to pay covering material.

Tropical style focuses on bringing nature
into decorative design,Use natural materials
colors used are mostly natural tone.
Nowadays,bringing tree to decorate the 
office is very popular in time which has
a campaign about reducing global warming
using  natural materials.

And this is the style of the current office whether small or large.Trend is not considered to be same design. Designers use techniques have to identity of that company and save furniture cost because it is a popular trend,Stores have to sell products at a lower price and buy.Can be easily done without haveing to make new orders.

15 Creative Office Layout Ideas That Gets People Super Excited

New ideas for your office layout do not have to
be time consuming or expensive! Whether you’re moving to a new
space or trying to improve an existing one, you can refresh your
office by following a few simple tips and tricks.

Are you ready to be inspired? Here are the coolest
office layout ideas you can implement without breaking the
bank or killing your schedule.

 

Office Layout Idea#1: The Newsroom

Key Features : Desk clusters, open space, and flexible seating

Perfect for… Fast-paced work that requires lots of collaboration. This type of setup is perfect for any work where communication is key and there is a pressing need for impromptu meetings. Groups who don’t have time to reserve conference rooms and scan schedules when they need to have meetings will benefit from this environment.

Tips and Tricks : – Push together individual office desks to make clusters of both large and small group tables.
– Remove cubicle walls and room dividers.
– Intersperse the office with comfortable, flexible seatingoptions. Use what you already have and
maybe supplement with some bean-bag seats.

40 Blog Post Ideas for Your Small Business Blog

40 Blog Post Ideas for Your Small Business Blog

Referent web : www.thebalancesmb.com
Picture : freepic, pinterest
Date : Fri 20 Dec 2019

If you have a small business blog, you know how important it is to post on a consistent basis. Not only are blogs an excellent way to give your business credibility in your niche, but they are also an integral part of any content marketing strategy. By providing fresh, relevant and interesting content to your readers, you give them a reason to keep coming back while increasing the likelihood of a future purchase.

It’s not always easy to pump out fresh content, though, especially if you feel like you have nothing to write about. This list of 40 blog post ideas should help you break through your writer’s block and create several highly engaging posts for your blog.

40 Blog Post Ideas

1. Share the success story of one of your customers, especially how it relates to your products or services.

2. Compile a list of the best tools or apps or software for business owners in your industry.

3. Answer a set of the most frequently asked questions you receive in your business.

4. Record a video (or video series) demonstrating how to do something.

5. Write about what made you want to become a business owner.

6. Provide a free template, tip sheet, checklist, or other downloadable content that would be useful to your readers. Blog idea 1

7. Showcase one of your products.

8. Create a list of people to follow on Twitter.

9. Explain a process relevant in your industry in a step-by-step post.

10. Profile an employee in a post.

11. Profile a long-time customer.

12. Write a “what not to do” or biggest mistakes post.

13. Share a personal story to inspire your readers. Blog idea 2

14. Provide a behind-the-scenes look that shows pictures and anecdotes from your office or shop.

15. Give an update on what’s happening in your company over the next 30 or 60 days; recap the past 30.

16. Curate popular content and post a list of the best content in your niche.

17. Share a collection of customers comments, compliments, and testimonials.

18. Write a recap of an event you attended.

19. Post a list of famous (or not-so-famous) quotes that have inspired you in your business. Blog idea 3

20. Interview an influential person in your industry (and ask your readers to submit questions ahead of time).

21. Compile a list of the most popular posts on your blog.

22. Create a blog scavenger hunt.

23. Compile a list of useful and relevant posts on other related blogs.

24. Review a product, book or event that your readers care about.

25. Go off-topic and share something unrelated to the usual content you post.

26. Give a social media summary, sharing all of your social profiles and samples of the content you post on each platform (with encouragement to follow, like, pin, etc.) Blog idea 4

27. Run a contest or host a giveaway.

28. Write a makeover post showing the before and after when you redecorated your office, redesigned your website or updated your logo.

29. Poll your readers on what they want to see more or less of, then use the feedback for future posts.

30. Share your biggest lessons learned as a small business owner.

31. List job openings you are currently trying to fill in your business.
Blog idea 5

32. Highlight your favorite local charity (and encourage your readers to donate).

33. Compile a list of books that have helped you in your business journey.

34. Promote an event your business is sponsoring.

35. Share the history of your business in a storytelling format.

36. Post a list of your own business goals for the year and encourage your readers to share theirs in the comments section. Blog idea 6

37. Compile a list of the top influencers in your niche.

38. Create an infographic that covers a topic often discussed in your industry.

39. Invite your readers to submit a guest post on your blog.

40. Post a list of the most useful online resources for your colleagues or customers.