Are U.S. manufacturers competitive on a global scale?

According to a new study released by the American Small Manufacturers Coalition (ASMC), U.S. manufacturing companies - particularly small firms - may not be ready to withstand competition from global counterparts.

The Next Generation Manufacturing Study looked at firm responses to a series of strategies deemed important to compete on a global scale including customer-focused innovation, systemic continuous improvement, advanced talent management, global engagement, extended enterprise management and sustainable processes.

"The results are a wakeup call," said Michael Klonsinski, ASMC board chair. "The consequences of inaction could trigger even more job losses in manufacturing and ultimately a lower standard of living for all Americans."

The ASMC reports that small and mid-sized manufacturers have fallen behind their larger peers in meeting world-class status for the strategies outlined.

And, despite the push from the federal government on a range of environmental issues ranging from renewable energy use to building hybrid cars, green and sustainable issues are not a top priority for many U.S. manufacturers.