(ASQ: Milwaukee) -- An American Society for Quality (ASQ) survey shows a majority of manufacturers are optimistic about a small economic uptick in 2010 at their organizations. However, respondents believe further cost-cutting measures will continue to be implemented. The results show a majority of respondents (64.7%) employed in the manufacturing sector predict their organizations will experience some financial recovery in 2010. More than 1,000 manufacturing professionals around the world responded to the online survey from Dec. 2–13.

Other events that respondents predict their organizations will experience in 2010:

• 61.3 percent believe their organization will create processes to reduce costs

• 44.8 percent expect a pay freeze

• 41.4 percent predict a hiring freeze at their organizations

• 35.2 percent will have mandatory budget cuts

• 27.8 percent expect staff layoffs

• 24.7 percent anticipate reduced employee benefits

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