In reflecting on the resignation of Steve Jobs as Apple Computer's CEO, it strikes me that most people would not describe Apple as a manufacturing company. Instead, most would probably say that Apple is a consumer products company or simply just a computer or technology company, albeit one with an iconic image inseparably linked to its dynamic co-founder Jobs.

But, at it roots, Apple is very much a manufacturing company -- from design, to production, to sales and marketing, and customer service. It's the whole package of what a manufacturing company can be when all the planets align.

It's that alignment that may be the real legacy -- and genius -- of Steve Jobs. He brought together a laser-like focus on customers, the courage of his own convictions, great design, deft orchestration of Apple's supply chain, and amazing retail accumen to create one of the most successful companies ever. Taken together, Jobs created what you might call a lifestyle around Apple products. That's rare in business, and, when it happens, it usually means longevity.

Steve Jobs showed our industry how the recipe of consumer focus, great design, and supply chain management can lead to success. He just wanted to make great products. It is a lesson for us all.

What's your view? What can industry learn from Mr. Jobs?