Four Things to Look for in a Manufacturing Partner
Setting out to find a new manufacturing partner is a rather stressful experience that many companies are faced with doing. Whether you are looking to expand your product line, you just want to find a manufacturer that makes more sense for your business, or you’re a brand-new business just looking to set up that all important first partner relationship, there is so much to consider, and it isn’t a process you want to rush through.
While each company has its own specific needs, there are some basic things you should look for in your manufacturing partner. These can even act as a starting point from which you can dig deeper. Here are four things you can look for in your next manufacturing partner.
Does It Offer the Technology You Require?
This particular question is an excellent one to start off with, as it can either provide you with a quick “no,” allowing you to move on. You want to be absolutely sure that your new manufacturing partner is able to offer the technology you require to manufacture your product. There isn’t a blanket of services that manufactures offer, and some specialize in particular areas of technology, service, and practices that may be better suited to your company.
For example, let’s take OSH Park, which prides itself on being able to solve the PCB manufacturing issues. It offers high-quality printed circuit boards at a competitive and cost-effective price, something that many manufacturers can’t match. OSH Park has the technology and the means to make it happen, which can then help it to pull ahead of the competition. This is exactly why you have to be picky about what the manufacture specializes in and offers, making sure that it can support the technology you require.
What Does Their Track Record Say About Them?
It’s also a good idea to look at what the manufacturer’s track record says about them. Obviously, you want to pick a partner that has a strong and professional reputation in the industry, so it doesn’t hurt to ask for contacts you can speak to directly and ask questions of. If the manufacturer stands behind their products, they should have no problem giving you a list of clients to speak with.
How Will Problems Be Dealt With?
Nobody wants to think about there being issues and problems, but the fact is that you can’t control everything all of the time. Finding a manufacturer that is flexible and can work with you when a problem does arise can save your company a lot of headaches and money.
Is Their Cost Reasonable?
Of course, budgeting needs to be a huge concern because, let’s face it, your end product needs to make you money. Make sure you ask for a detailed quote from the manufacturer so that you can compare it with industry standards and even other manufacturers. It shouldn’t be about getting the cheapest option out there, but it should be about the most reasonable cost for what you’re getting.
Find That Perfect Partnership
By keeping these considerations in mind, you’ll be able to find the ideal manufacturing company to partner with.
