Hydraulic Institute Outlines 2002-2005 Strategic Plan: Expanding Focus from Pumps to “Pumping Systems”

Further, the Hydraulic Institute (HI) plans to develop and introduce more educational information for members and the user community at large, according to Robert Asdal, executive director of HI.

“HI will remain the primary forum for management decision makers to exchange information on pumps and pumping systems. New initiatives, however, such as the recent Pump Life Cycle Cost Guide and work on VFDs, will address entire pumping systems. As part of this effort, we are exploring member participation for pump users, consulting engineers and interested parties from government and academia,” he said.

In addition, HI plans to enhance its educational offerings. HI associate members are sponsoring seminars and training programs at HI meetings and these will likely be expanded with on-line offerings. Later in 2002, HI plans to introduce a new CD-ROM and e-learning program on the Fundamentals of Centrifugal and Vertical Pumps. More such offerings are planned.

As part of its new strategic plan, HI is addressing the needs of smaller manufacturing companies by offering unique services that make it more attractive to become an HI member. The new HI Small Business Network is already offering members an opportunity to explore common business interests such as co-development of technology and products, purchasing cooperatives, strategic alliances and licensing agreements. The network also offers a forum for discussion of key trends, import/export issues and other business opportunities.

HI is also setting up new “Affinity” Programs that offer members valuable and cost-effective business services. Such programs include a national credit union with internet banking for employees of member companies, long-term health care insurance, and audio and web conferencing services. Last month, HI introduced its first such program, offering members significant discounts on audio and web conferences. Details are available at www.pumps.org.

“HI is acknowledged worldwide as the voice for the North American pump industry and with that comes a responsibility to be proactive in setting international standards. Therefore, HI will continue its participation and leadership role in ISO, ANSI and other international standards committees,” Asdal continued. “We will also improve our electronic capabilities for collaboration, exchanging information, fostering committee communications, and delivering new standards in a timely and efficient manner.”

About Hydraulic Institute

The 85-year old Hydraulic Institute, the largest association of pump producers in North America, serves member companies and pump users by providing product standards, and forums for the exchange of industry information.

For more information on the Hydraulic Institute, visit the HI web site at www.pumps.org. To learn more about membership in the Hydraulic Institute, prospective members are invited to personally call HI Executive Director Bob Asdal at (973) 267-9700. Requests may also be faxed to (973) 267-9055 or mailed to 9 Sylvan Way, Parsippany, NJ 07054. Visitors to the HI web site are invited to sign the HI Guest Book for future notices of new standards, on-going energy savings tips and updates on educational offerings.