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October 2008
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Zipp

"Live out of your imagination, not your history."

-Steven Covey

(click image for a little Zipp)
InnovationBuilding expertise through collective innovation
Open innovation has been a hot management phrase for the past five years. So far, though, these collaborations have generally been focused on small- scale research and development, or technology ventures between giant global brands and smaller partners. Think Proctor & Gamble's collaborations with universities and suppliers or IBM's embrace of an open-source software language which both saves the company money and provides it with a new revenue stream.

But what if you brought together design heads from some of the world's biggest global brands with the aim of stimulating innovation? That was the premise of the fifth annual Raymond conference attended by 17 design managers from companies as diverse as Heineken, Philips, Lego, Airbus, and Hewlett-Packard. Designers are accustomed to working with external consultants and customers, but Raymond's aim is different: fostering cooperation between design teams at big global companies in radically different markets.

Go to BusinessWeek Online to learn how the world's top corporate design directors are stretching the mind of design!

FSC CertificationFSC certification
In recognition of HBF's ongoing commitment to using sustainable and responsible materials in the manufacturing of its products, HBF has been granted Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain-of-Custody Certification by the SmartWood program of the Rainforest Alliance.

This new certification agreement will allow HBF to offer FSC certified wood veneer or core on a project basis to maintain Chain-of-Custody for the design firm and client. FSC Chain-of-Custody certification tracks certified wood from the forest to final production to ensure that responsible forestry practices were maintained at every level and to preserve this natural resource for generations to come.

HBF is a recognized leader in environmental initiatives and being FSC Chain-of-Custody certified is one more accomplishment!

Practical MagicPractical Magic
HBF's latest collection designed by Marilyn Geller was conceived as a celebration of new trends in sustainable textiles and performance finishes. Practical Magic offers four patterns that are very "practical" but with a bit of "magic."

* Abacus and Pixie Dust are constructed with recycled polyester and finished with MBDC Silver C2C certified Crypton® Green.
* Rope Trick is a modern and elegant pattern rendered in organic cotton and bamboo and features the GreenShield finish for stain protection.
* Spellbound, woven with organic cotton and bamboo, as well as a bit of hemp and polyester, features GreenShield.

Stay tuned for more details on this magical new collection --- you'll love it!

HowStuffWorks
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All the best,

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Bill Meyer
Contract Specialities, Inc. (CSI)

phone: 954-389-1295 or 800-808-8274