Working with a contract manufacturer takes a certain level of trust. After all, these companies are responsible for the creation of your products. It’s important to learn all you can before hiring a CM.
In addition to finding a CM with the tools necessary to handle the unique demands of your project, it’s also important to find a contract manufacturing company that can save you money as well. The right CM can provide you with the long term savings you require, while increasing the overall profitability and reputation of your business. This is crucial to success.
Choosing a Quality CM
Considering the basic elements during the proposal process can tell you a lot about the contract manufacturer you’re considering. This is especially true if you wish to reduce the number of suppliers your business requires.
The basic elements for consideration include:
- Production Costs
- Lead Times
- Warranties and Support
- Validation of Business Processes
While the right CM can help you save money through product and process improvements, you need to consider the potential long term value of using a CM as well. Although elements beyond the basics are harder to quantify, these elements represent the greatest value to your business.
Consider the Entire Manufacturing Team
It’s critical to ensure the capabilities, procedures, and business practices of the outsourced manufacturing partner you choose. However, the most valuable long term gains will come from the entire manufacturing team.
When considering a CM, look at the company as a whole. Factors such as ethics, tenure length, and employee satisfaction can say a lot about the firm. The manufacturing team should consist of engaged, empowered, long term employees. You need to know that the people responsible for the creation of your project have the drive and experience needed to continually examine both the product and process to discover ways to improve them.
Instead of simply auditing the processes, make sure you take the time to actually talk to the manufacturing team. This typically provides all the insight you require.
Please contact us for information about our contract manufacturing services.
