• Examine your software system. Are you really taking advantage of all your system has to offer? Most software vendors say you aren't. Or is it time to invest in a new system?

• Take a look at your product lines. Should you be adding complementary lines to your existing ones? Do you need to eliminate some? How has your customer base been changing? What other products might they buy from you?

• Do you need to reorganize your warehouse? Inspect your shipping and receiving areas. Check the layout of your warehouse or front counter area. Is it easy to pick products? Talk to your warehouse staff for suggestions on ways to improve your operations.

• Get paid sooner. Don't be a banker for your customers. The average in our industry for accounts receivable is 44 days. Are you better or worse than the average? Resolve to slash your accounts receivable by two days in 2007.

• Improve your customer service. Do a survey of your customers to find out how your company is perceived. It doesn't have to be anything in-depth, but find out what services your customers really value, not what you think they value.

There are a couple of other items you also might want to consider, such as increasing your margins slowly over the next few years. Don't let your competition dictate what you should be charging. Finally, get out and meet with your customers, rather than sitting in your office. You'll be amazed at what you find out.

And have a safe, healthy and prosperous 2007.