This is why we would like to give some pointers regarding the choosing process of sub-contractors. Good sub-contractors help with:<\/p>\n
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- Minimising delays<\/li>\n
- Reducing costs in manufacturing<\/a><\/li>\n
- Reducing inefficiencies<\/li>\n
- Increasing productivity<\/li>\n
- Boosting customer satisfaction<\/li>\n
- Mitigating risks<\/li>\n
- Developing a positive reputation in the industry<\/li>\n
- Increasing ROI<\/li>\n
- Decreasing redundancies<\/li>\n
- Automating basic tasks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
All the aforementioned positive impacts of well-chosen partners mean that the selection process should be quite analytical.<\/p>\n
Our advice is especially aimed at mid-size companies looking for partners in producing a variety of projects, not serial production<\/a>. The process of pinpointing suitable candidates includes such attributes:<\/p>\n
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- Capabilities<\/li>\n
- Financial strength<\/li>\n
- Fit for size<\/li>\n
- ISO standards<\/li>\n
- Communication<\/li>\n
- Pricing<\/li>\n
- Speed of quoting and delivery (capacity)<\/li>\n
- Test order quality<\/li>\n
- Trustworthiness over time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
1. Capabilities<\/h2>\n
The first step is identifying a manufacturer’s capabilities. Not everyone has a web page that allows you to access that info in a clear and understandable fashion.<\/p>\n
However, this does not mean that good fabricators are only limited to ones with a proper online presence. So don’t be deterred by that. Meeting interesting companies at expos and through word-of-mouth are also ways to discover new manufacturing sub-contractors. Just send them an email asking about their capabilities.<\/p>\n
You can include an Excel template to get a clear overview and avoid misunderstanding about what you are actually looking for.<\/p>\n
![\"Sheet](\"https:\/\/fractory.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Sheet-metal-bending.jpg\")
<\/p>\nCapabilities include both the machinery at a company’s disposal and their willingness to accept different jobs. While some only focus on large orders and are never interested in manufacturing only a few parts at once, others may not have the capacity to execute series production but are well-suitable for your prototyping<\/a> needs.<\/p>\n
2. Financial Strength<\/h2>\n
This is something we check and would advise you to do the same. The info about a company’s revenues is readily available online. Take a look.<\/p>\n
Bad credit is definitely a red light and points towards a possible point of failure, should you decide to include such a company in your supply chain.<\/p>\n
3. Actual Fit<\/h2>\n
Would the two companies fit well with each other? Will the relationship work with the respective size and cultures of the two organisations? While huge manufacturing companies probably have the capability to produce pretty much anything, the communication may suffer.<\/p>\n
Forming only a minuscule part of their revenue, it is common for large companies to leave the smaller customers hanging. Not all of them, of course. But it’s something worthy to take note of.<\/p>\n
Are there potential conflicts, such as dealing with main competitors, or are any of the directors engaged in other companies that might compromise confidentiality?<\/p>\n
Again, those conflicts are only potential. There is always the possibility to sign NDAs<\/a> and other agreements that guarantee the security of your intellectual property.<\/p>\n
4. ISO Credentials<\/h2>\n
Most manufacturers display their certificates right on their web page<\/a>. Look for industry-related ISO standards<\/a> that show some prowess in a field you are interested in.<\/p>\n
![\"ISO](\"https:\/\/fractory.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/ISO-Standards-in-Manufacturing.png\")
<\/p>\nFor example, ISO 9001 is a common standard. It shows that a company adopts principles that strive for continuous improvement. Although it is not a guarantee, it is a sign of a forward-thinking culture. This is often reflected in the quality of service.<\/p>\n
ISO 9013 ensures that your sub-contractor can provide certain quality cutting. Namely, it brings out dimensional requirements for different thermal cutting methods.<\/p>\n
ISO 10204 shows that the materials used come from reputable suppliers. If you have done a FEA analysis and chosen the material accordingly, there should be no failure. Unless your supplier decides to earn some extra by changing the requested material against a cheaper one.<\/p>\n
Although such shenanigans seem childish and unprofessional, they are not all that rare. That’s why it is also important to understand alternative material grades.<\/p>\n
ISO 14001 focuses on a company’s environmental impact. A growing concern, it is relevant to many. And maybe also for your customers. So keep your eyes open for that one as well.<\/p>\n
\n\n Scale Your Manufacturing from Prototyping to Series<\/span>\n\n- \n
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