## ASTEC INDUSTRIES, INC. GLYPH<149> VISION 20/20 

However, things are changing. We know now how to build smooth roads that last virtually forever. Still, this information doesnGLYPH<146>t often flow freely across state lines from one department of transportation to another. 

## A New Scientific Approach 

We now have technology to predict pavement performance and to employ much more sophisticated mix design methods. This new technology is catching the attention of more and more states because of the undeniable benefits it provides. 

In the last few years asphalt roads have increased in smoothness to an amazing degree. Technology such as the use of lasers on paving machines, new paving techniques using material transfer vehicles, new laboratory tools that allow research and, finally, better quality control and assurance practices have all contributed to provide the traveler with a safer, smoother, more pleasant ride. And this new generation of roadway helps vehicles consume less fuel, and saves on vehicle maintenance cost and tire wear. 

The increased focus on quality and durability has helped road builders develop the next generation of long- lasting, smooth pavement. Called perpetual pavement, the roadway is constructed in laminated layers with different types of mix used in each layer to achieve the greatest strength. 

Perpetual pavement is durable and, with proper maintenance, can last indefinitely. These roads will not come apart as the highways of the past. To maintain surface smoothness, only the surface is renewed every few years. ThatGLYPH<146>s like the difference between microsurgery and a lengthy, invasive procedure. And to- day virtually all asphalt removed from roadways before resurfacing is being recycled immediately, conserv- ing natural resources and energy. Besides smoothness, these modern pavements also have exceptional strengths to support heavy loads, and they reduce tire noise by up to seven decibels compared to tradi- tional roads. 

Astec Industries has been an innovator on the equipment side of the equation of supplying our citizens with quality and safety in roadways. And when it comes to our products we place priority on new and better technology under proven and not-so-new assumptions. 

## ASTEC INDUSTRIES: OUR BUSINESS MODEL 

Those of us who have been in business for a while may find it interesting to try and recall all the numerous management books and management business models that have come and gone over the years. One only needs to look at the business section in any bookstore to see the number of new offerings. Many of the new fads, the flavor of the moment, seem to offer some simple solutions for quick success and outdo- ing the competition. Business leaders will merely have to strategize and develop corporate structures that automatically get the job done without anyone having to get their hands dirty in the details of running a business. 

One popular current business model is that of outsourcing. Apply this model to making a product and you donGLYPH<146>t manufacture anything yourself. You just assemble. You donGLYPH<146>t give much service, eliminate all the engineers, build simple, non-innovative equipment, and sell cheap while eliminating people and factories. 

If this model is correct, then the Astec model is totally wrong. 

Our business philosophy and business model may be old-fashioned but we still believe in the day-to-day blocking and tackling. We believe in doing a good job, enjoying what we do, and most of all helping the customer with whatever problem he has, whether it is related to the sale of equipment or not. 

We believe that the core purpose of our company is to build equipment that will improve the worldGLYPH<146>s infra- structure. Hopefully, the equipment we build will make the world a better place to live. And when we are gone from this world, we hope we will have left it better than it was when we arrived. 

