Do you rely on quick fixes and creative slogans to solve corporate problems or re-energize your organization? You may want to reconsider.

A contest to see who could come up with the worst slogan drew 1,100 entries and revealed that slogans stir up or intensify hostility. As a result, Jim Tompkins of Tompkins Associates was inspired to write his new book, Think Outside the Box: The Most Trite, Generic, Hokey, Overused, Cliched or Unmotivating Motivational Slogans.

The book reveals some of the quick fixes, easy solutions, and empty words that exist in today's corporate culture. The cost is $12.95. Tompkins Press 800-789-1257 Write in 380

In an effort to further standardize two-dimensional (2D) bar code symbology usage across the auto industry, the Symbology Work Group has published a revised edition of its 2D Symbology White Paper.

The guide helps manufacturers to understand and evaluate the choices of 2D symbologies. The white paper now includes Quick Response (QR) Code for Category 1 applications, which includes part marking and tracking.

The updated publication describes 10 potential applications for 2D symbologies, as well as four symbologies selected for use in the automotive industry and the criteria used in selecting them. Automotive Industry Action Group 248-358-3003 Write in 381

Do you and your conveyor supplier speak the same language? If you're interested in considering a conveyor system for your warehouse or manufacturing plant will you and your potential vendors be communicating with a common set of terms?

Unless you can answer these questions with "yes" without hesitating, consider obtaining a copy of "A recommended common industry practice and guidelines for a conveyor system request for proposal."

One goal is to educate persons with minimal conveyor system experience with writing a bid specification. Included in the document is a glossary of terms.

An electronic copy is available at no charge by e-mailing tcarbott@mhia.org. Conveyor Product Section of MHIA and the Association of Professional Material Handling Consultants 704-676-1190 Write in 382