Deciding to partner with a contract manufacturer is one of the best decisions you can make for your business. CMs help reduce costs, improve quality, and reduce time-to-market. However, it’s important to learn all you can about the contract manufacturer before making your selection.
Capabilities
During the interview process, you’ll want to find out the capabilities of every contract manufacturer you talk to. Remember to consider both your current and potential needs when evaluating each company. It’s important to select a CM that can help your business grow and expand.
Experience
The work performed by contract manufacturers can vary greatly from one company to the next. Don’t be afraid to ask about the types of projects and industries each company has worked with. Choosing a CM that has experience with multiple industries puts you in the best position to expand into new markets later.
Process
Each company will probably have their own way of handling production process. You’ll want to find a company whose process matches your own business operations.
People
The overall success of your project will depend heavily on the people assigned to it. When speaking with potential candidates, make sure you talk to the people that will actually be working on your project. These are the people who can provide the most insight and help you understand how the project will progress. Make sure you speak with everyone involved including those responsible for assembly and testing.
Equipment & Technology
Creating electronic devices requires specialized equipment and technology. Make sure the company you partner with has access to up-to-date tools, techniques, and equipment.
Capacity
The contract manufacturer you choose should have the capacity to handle your project. Consider the size and complexity of your project when selecting a company to work with. Keep in mind that if your project is their biggest, the CM might run into trouble completing your order. Another extreme, if your project is their smallest, they might not give you the attention you deserve. It’s best to sit somewhere in the middle.
There are many things to consider when choosing a contract manufacturer. If you have questions or would like to talk to someone about your project, Means Engineering can help. Please contact us for details.
