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Show Notes: Eric Norman on Packaging Specifications
Introduction
In this episode, Adam interviews Eric Norman, a partner and senior consultant with Specs and the Spec Squad lead at Dazmii, who has over 23 years of experience in packaging engineering. Eric shares his journey from studying psychology and computer science to becoming a packaging engineer and his love for the food and beverage packaging industry. He also talks about his passion for data and how it led him to create SpecRight, a concept for spec data management.
Overview
In this interview, Eric and Adam discuss Eric’s background, his journey to becoming a packaging engineer, the importance of packaging specifications, the challenges faced by the industry, and Eric’s vision for the future of packaging. They also touch on the similarities and differences between various industries that require packaging. Eric explains how his company, Spec Right, helps CPG companies manage their spec data by normalizing it and putting it all in one place. He also talks about the importance of change management and organizational change management when implementing new systems.
Timestamped Chapter Summary
* Introduction to Eric Norman and his background (00:00:00)
* Eric’s journey to becoming a packaging engineer (00:01:45)
* Eric’s experience in the food and beverage packaging industry (00:03:24)
* Eric’s passion for data and creating Spec Right (00:04:03)
* The importance of packaging specifications (00:07:14)
* The challenges faced by the packaging industry (00:09:55)
* The similarities and differences between various industries that require packaging (00:06:12)
* How Spec Right helps CPG companies manage their spec data (00:12:21)
* The importance of change management and organizational change management (00:15:10)
* Eric’s vision for the future of packaging (00:17:40)
* The impact of sustainability on packaging (00:19:58)
* The role of technology in packaging (00:24:39)
* The missing data in extended producer responsibility and sustainability (00:18:52)
* Spec Squad’s VRO process and supporting clients with various systems (00:19:18)
* Leveraging technology to connect everyone together in one system (00:19:54)
* The importance of standardization for AI in packaging (00:21:58)
* The role of data in enabling companies to work smarter and faster (00:21:52)
* Utilizing packaging students in Spec Squad (00:23:31)
* Eric’s advice for those interested in packaging engineering (00:31:16)
* Eric’s accessibility to all universities (00:25:12)
* The role of CSU Rammies in packaging (00:25:44)
* Cookies and Clean in Phoenix, Arizona (00:26:09)
Relevant Links/Resources/References
* Specs:
https://www.specsservices.com/
* Dazmii:
https://dazmii.com/
* SpecRight:
https://specright.com/
Quotable Phrases/Takeaways
* “Packaging is not just a box. It’s the delivery system for the brand.” (00:08:57)
* “The packaging industry is a very complex industry. There are a lot of regulations and a lot of stakeholders involved.” (00:10:10)
* “Packaging is going to become more intelligent, more connected, and more sustainable.” (00:17:40)
* “Sustainability is not just about the environment. It’s also about the economics and the social impact.” (00:21:06)
* “Technology is going to be a game-changer for the packaging industry.” (00:25:47)
Social Media Handles/CTAs
* Adam: Twitter - @packagingpastor
* Eric: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-norman-6b9a5a/
Conclusion
Eric Norman’s journey to becoming a packaging engineer and his passion for data have led him to create SpecRight, a concept for spec data management. In this interview, Eric and Adam discuss the importance of packaging specifications, the challenges faced by the industry, and Eric’s vision for the future of packaging. With sustainability and technology playing a crucial role, packaging is set to become more intelligent, connected, and sustainable. Eric and Adam also touch on the similarities and differences between various industries that require packaging. If you’re interested in packaging engineering, Eric’s advice is to stay curious, stay informed, and keep learning. Additionally, Eric discusses the missing data in extended producer responsibility and sustainability, the VRO process of Spec Squad, leveraging technology to connect everyone together in one system, the importance of standardization for AI in packaging, and the role of data in enabling companies to work smarter and faster. Eric is accessible to all universities, including CSU Rammies, and he recommends Cookies and Clean in Phoenix for pet grooming.