The electrical equipment, appliance and component manufacturing industries produce products that enhance comfort and contribute to the convenience of daily life. Demand is driven by residential, industrial and commercial sales, and profitability depends largely on efficient operations and effective marketing. With the need for increased precision and faster production processes to compete with foreign imports, the use of computer technology and automated machinery continues to infiltrate the industry. Large companies' abilities to take advantage of economies of scale and small companies' capabilities for specialization and subcontracting help ensure future contract opportunities for companies of all sizes.