Posts Tagged ‘manufacturing companies in China’
Manufacturing in China: 10 Tips to Peak Season Preparation (Part 3)
Even the most fruitful production and distribution chains can sometimes find themselves running out of capacity due to a shortage of trucks or freight, let alone when they are dealing with the large demand during peak shipping seasons.
Online stores and brick-and-mortar brands must keep up with the demand of orders coming in, and make sure that each package is delivered smoothly. During this surge, you must make a detailed strategy for your distribution.
To help to make it through without too many hiccups, in the last part of the peak season preparation, we will provide more tips about logistics to help you navigate the tough season. Let’s dive in.
Click here for the previous parts of the peak season preparation tips:
7. Review Packaging
As eCommerce made it possible for anyone to buy anything with a quick click, shopping experiences are becoming more important than ever before. It often involves getting all kinds of items in the same store and items will be delivered to a customer’s house with a beautiful package safe and sound.
When it comes to packaging, everyone loves getting a beautiful package waiting at their doorsteps. This sense of excitement is one of the best parts of the customer experience. To avoid any potential damage, it is important for your packaging not to be damaged in any way. For example, if you are shipping something fragile then it must be packed and shipped inside an enclosed six-sided box to prevent exposure during transit.
Also, you need to take your package design into account. Now, young generations tend to share their worthy unboxing moments on their social platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, and TikTok, which has a dramatic effect on potential buyers who research reviews prior to making a purchase. In fact, product unboxing videos have become an integral part of the online buying experience. Admittedly, the product packaging gives the first impression to a new customer. We all know that people don’t always buy something because it’s cheap – they buy it because they feel connected with the brand.
In addition, try to make your package easy to open. No one wants to tear the package with a long-awaited item in heavy plastic that’s almost impossible to open. If people have the frustration of opening a package, they probably won’t turn to shop again.
8. Manage Shipping
You make sure to do everything right before the peak season arrives. You approve the manufacturing process, follow up on inspections and review website design and product copywriting time after time; all in an effort to leave your customers satisfied. Now – you are just one step away from shipping out this merchandise.
However, during the festive period, the demand for freight capacity is at a high during peak season. Global supply chain efficiencies can get disrupted as all the online direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands are struggling to deliver their products on time as late deliveries can negatively impact the customer’s perception of the brand, leading to lost sales in the future.
Therefore, one way to manage your shipping properly is by collaborating with multiple logistics companies to increase visibility and take advantage of all available shipping capacity will increase profitability and ensure prompt delivery of your products.
Besides, you need to think outside the box. For example, airfreight can be effective by providing rapid service, while LCL (“Less-than-Container-Load”) shipments can be your alternative that is cheaper and just a bit slower. The point is that now is the perfect time to explore more shipping options so that you can get your package delivered faster without feeling like you need to break the bank while doing so.
9. Secure Sufficient Capital
Regardless of your company’s size or industry sector, working capital is an important metric to achieve success during the holiday season. This is because you may need more funds readily available to increase inventory, hire some part-time staff, set up holiday displays, and invest in advertising.
Consider whether you have the positive working capital needed to ensure that your business operations are running smoothly. Because there will likely be a spike in extra expense during the peak season. For instance, an increase in shipping rates for couriers coming from the production facility to your warehouse and then being sent to customers’ doorsteps. Make sure you take this into account when calculating how much you will pay for deliveries with your distributors.
Human capital is an important aspect of planning for peak season. With new rules and regulations surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses have had to reduce the number of staff present on the shop floor to comply with new physical distancing rules. However, as peak season approaches, your warehouse needs to find a way to increase productivity while keeping your workers safe. This can mean adding more shifts on weekends or evenings to increase capacity.
Keep in mind to recruit and train enough staff to handle logistics and other work. If you don’t do this, then orders might not get fulfilled on time or customers will be left waiting. Also, try to have a standard process that everyone on your team can follow correctly. Make sure that all packages will be verified, all staff that receives stock does it the same way, and that all boxes are verified, received, and unpacked together, accurately counted, and checked for accuracy.
10. Stay Organized
A great way to excel in the peak season is to be well-prepared for anything from manufacturing to distribution to shipping. The more prepared you are for the upcoming peak season beforehand, the better you can stay efficient and proactive and avoid any issues that may arise.
Shield Works Precision Manufacturing is a company that has experience and knowledge in navigating the struggles of the peak shipping season. We provide visibility into your supply chain and will help you through the process without risks. We can help you during the craziness that comes with busy production and shipping! Contact us today if you want to know how our one-stop-shop solution is for success even during the most challenging peak season.
An Overview of Processes, Regulations, and Quality Standards of OEM Manufacturers
Want to know more about OEM manufacturers and not sure who to trust? It can be hard to know who to trust when it comes to OEM manufacturers. How do you know that the processes and standards they adhere to are up to par?
There are a lot of shady OEM manufacturers out there, and it’s hard to know who you can trust. Not only do these companies often cut corners, but they also don’t always adhere to quality standards or regulations.
We can help you. At Shieldwords Precision Manufacturing, we are very careful to follow all the steps and standards for quality.
We are ISO9001, 14001, and 45001 certified. We also have a long history of supplying high-quality products to some of the world’s biggest brands.
Read on for more details:
Must-Have an Effective Supply Chain Process
The OEM manufacturer must have a good supply chain process. This means that the parts and materials needed to make the product arrive on time and are the right parts.
The supplier needs to check that the materials are the same as prior approval. This is important so that we can keep track of where things come from.
Must Adhere to Regulations
OEM manufacturers have to follow certain rules set by their industry or government. These rules include safety guidelines to keep workers safe from harm in the production environment.
They must also meet environmental regulations to protect the planet.
OEM manufacturers need to have a quality control system that meets international standards, such as ISO 9000.
They Must Have Consistency
OEM manufacturers in China need to make sure that their products always meet customer expectations. Not only for things like how well it works. But also, how long it lasts, and how safe it is.
They help customers throughout the design and development process. This is to understand their needs and create custom solutions to meet them.
This means always checking to make sure the quality is good. We do this at every step of production. That way, if there is a problem, we can fix it right away. That’s one of the benefits of outsourcing your OEM manufacturing.
Must Meet Customer Requirements
OEM manufacturers use strict processes to make sure their products are high quality and meet regulations,. But also standards, and customer specifications. They also have to be careful when choosing suppliers.
OEM manufacturers need to make sure that their products are high quality and meet customer requirements.
They can do this by monitoring quality throughout production and having a strong system in place to ensure the safety of workers.
Let’s dig deeper into each of these areas and more:
What Processes Verify Materials Received?
It is important to make sure that the materials suppliers give us are of good quality. This way, we can be sure that the products we receive meet our requirements. To do this, we use a process called quality control.
Suppliers must provide materials that meet the approved specifications. But also provide documentation to prove it.
Suppliers do extra safety tests on the products and the production areas. The people who make the product also check to make sure everything is okay before despatch.
With these exact steps in place, makers can rest assured that their received materials are up to par and adhere to safety standards.
What Types of Regulations Exist?
OEM manufacturers must adhere to a wide variety of regulations to remain competitive in the industry. These include safety regulations such as those on the structure and design of products.
There are environmental standards that factories have to follow. They can’t pollute the air or water. And there are other standards that businesses have to follow. These depend on what kind of business it is.
It is important for manufacturers to follow international standards. This makes sure their products are high quality.
There are standards for production, including ISO 9000. This establishes requirements for quality management systems. Other standards are more specific and depend on the product category or industry.
OEM manufacturers need to know about these changing guidelines. So they can stay in business and be successful.
How Do OEM Manufacturers Ensure Customer Satisfaction?
OEM companies want to provide good products and services that customers will like. This includes talking with customers often. But also making sure the products are high quality.
OEM manufacturers check every detail during production. This goes from design to final assembly, to make sure it meets customer standards.
Additionally, they run tests on parts even after they’re assembled to identify any flaws or issues before delivery.
OEM manufacturers provide custom solutions to their customers by communicating with them. But also inspecting products with care.
This way, they can make products that meet customer expectations and that are reliable.
How Do OEM Manufacturers Protect Workers?
OEM manufacturers must focus on keeping their workers safe from potential hazards. This means making sure proper safety protocols are in place.
Training is a must, both for operating equipment and protecting against injury. Protective clothing such as goggles and gloves should also be provided where necessary.
Employers need to be careful of any dangerous materials in the workplace. But also take the right measures to respond.
Of course, it is also important to take regular breaks and have good ventilation in the workplace. Both of these things are essential for creating a safe working environment.
What Quality Control Systems Are Typically Employed?
These systems involve regular inspections, testing, and verification of materials used in production. This includes tests performed both at the supplier’s facility and upon delivery.
The OEM manufacturer has a quality assurance team. This team does extra testing to make sure the product is good.
Quality control systems help to make sure that products are made correctly. This includes keeping track of production materials used. But also tracks changes during production, and saves information from the process.
Additionally, these systems help to make sure that products are without mistakes. But also that they meet customer expectations.
How Can an OEM Manufacturer Ensure the Quality of Their Products?
OEM Manufacturers must ensure the quality of their products. They do this by developing and implementing rigorous quality control plans. These plans account for customer specifications and expectations.
To do this, regular inspections of production processes should be carried out to check for defects or inconsistencies. Periodic tests on materials used in production are also necessary for quality assurance.
In addition, inspections upon delivery can be done by an established quality assurance team to ensure a high standard of product.
OEM manufacturers should source their components from reliable suppliers to prevent issues with quality. Investing in modern machinery can help maintain a consistent level of product quality as well.
It is important to test the product and make sure it is of good quality before selling it to customers. This way they know they are getting a good product.
What Other Standards Must Be Met by an OEM Manufacturer?
OEM manufacturers must meet the standards set by ISO 9000. They might have to follow other rules too, depending on what they make.
Automotive manufacturers have to make sure their cars follow the standards set by AMECA. They also have to make sure their cars don’t pollute the air too much.
Aerospace manufacturers have to follow quality management systems. These must be in the AS9100 regulations.
Also, any product that is going sold to people must meet safety standards. These are set by organizations like UL (Underwriters Laboratories).
It is up to the OEM manufacturer to be aware of these requirements and ensure their products are suitable and safe for use.
How Do OEM Manufacturers Get a Consistent Supply of Parts and Materials?
Maintaining supply chain management systems is essential for OEM manufacturers. They must ensure they have a consistent supply of parts and materials.
OEMs can figure out how many products they need by talking to suppliers. This way they get to see how fast they can make things.
This way, the OEMs can give their customers what they want without running out of things to sell. It is important for the supplier and the OEM manufacturer to have good communication.
This way, orders can fulfill with more speed to meet customer needs or respond to changes in demand. In this way, OEMs can make sure that their production lines are always running well.
What Role Does Quality Assurance Play in the Production Process?
It is very important for OEM Manufacturers to have quality assurance. This means that every product made meets certain standards. Quality assurance includes everything from the first design to the final inspection.
They make sure that all components are up to standard and fit together properly before the finished product leaves the facility.
Manufacturers make sure that each stage of production completes to expectations.
This meets industry guidelines and helps protect the manufacturer’s reputation. Customers get safe and high-performing products.
When a product has quality assurance, it means that the product is reliable and people can trust that it will work well. OEM Manufacturers are companies that make sure their products have quality assurance.
Why Do You Need an Efficient Supply Chain Process?
An efficient supply chain means that original equipment manufacturers (OEM) can reduce costs. This ensures fewer production delays and higher quality.
This happens when they have suppliers who they can rely on to provide the things they need in a timely way.
OEMs can avoid spending extra money on expedited shipping and focus on other aspects of the production process.
With modern technology such as automation and tracking systems, they can better keep track of inventories. This helps make sure there is always enough stock available for production.
OEMs can test materials and inspect products before delivery. This way they can make sure the products meet all safety standards and that they are what the customer wants.
These benefits enable OEMs to remain competitive while ensuring customer satisfaction.
How Do OEM Manufacturers Monitor Production Quality?
Detailed monitoring of quality levels during production is critical for OEM manufacturers. Quality assurance teams are typically responsible for testing materials and inspecting products at each step of the production process.
This is to make sure they meet all safety standards and customer requirements.
Additionally, modern technology such as statistical process control (SPC) software can be used to track product performance and detect any potential defects in real time.
By utilizing these methods, OEMs can ensure that their customers receive consistent, high-quality products every time.
OEMs should also implement continuous improvement systems that allow them to identify areas of improvement in their processes in order to further enhance quality.
With regular monitoring, OEMs can be confident that their products consistently meet or exceed industry standards.
What Safety Guidelines Must Be Followed to Protect Workers?
Strict guidelines must be followed by OEM manufacturers to ensure the safety of their workers in the production environment. These include providing personal protective equipment (PPE).
This would include gloves, face shields, and masks, implementing appropriate noise control measures, maintaining clean and well-ventilated work areas, and establishing safe operating procedures for machinery.
Additionally, regular workplace inspections should be conducted to identify any potential hazards and take corrective action if necessary.
By following these guidelines, OEMs can make sure that their employees are safe from injury or illness while on the job.
What Else Must OEM Manufacturers Keep in Mind?
OEMs should also consider environmental regulations when producing goods. This includes monitoring emissions levels from factory operations and ensuring the proper disposal of hazardous materials.
Additionally, OEMs should strive to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainability in their operations by making use of renewable resources and reducing waste.
By keeping these issues in mind, OEMs can make sure that their products are not only reliable and high-quality but also environmentally friendly.
If you want to learn more about our outsourced OEM manufacturing services, contact us now.
Clear on All Things OEM Manufacturers?
Regulations and quality standards are important for OEM manufacturers because they ensure that products are made correctly and safely. Adhering to these regulations can be costly, but it is worth it to protect the consumer.
The process of becoming an OEM manufacturer is long and difficult, but companies who go through with it usually produce high-quality products.
If you want to learn more about this topic, be sure to check out our blog for more articles like this one!
Top Reasons to Use Contract Manufacturing for Start-ups
Contract manufacturing is a great solution for start-ups who need to manufacture a product but don’t have the resources to do it themselves. Contract manufacturing allows start-ups to outsource their manufacturing needs to a reliable, experienced third-party provider, which can save them both time and money in the long run. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the top reasons why contract manufacturing is such a great choice for start-ups.
Cost-Effective
When it comes to starting a business, cost can be a major factor in success. Thankfully, contract manufacturing can be an effective way to reduce costs while maintaining high quality production.
Contract manufacturing allows start-ups to outsource their production to a third party at a lower cost than if they were to produce the items themselves. This is beneficial for start-ups because it allows them to save money on expensive equipment and labor costs, allowing them to focus their efforts and resources on other areas of the business.
Additionally, contract manufacturers often have access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology that start-ups may not have access to, which can help ensure that products are of the highest quality. Overall, using contract manufacturing is an excellent way for start-ups to cut costs while still maintaining a high-quality product.
Scalable
As a startup, it can be difficult to find the resources and capacity needed to scale up production of your product. Contract manufacturing offers start-ups the scalability they need to quickly adjust their production rate to meet customer demands.
Because contract manufacturing is based on a project basis, you’re able to easily scale up or down depending on your production needs. This can make it easy to manage your costs while still producing a high-quality product.
With the right contract manufacturer, startups can easily scale up production without having to invest in extra machinery or staff. This allows them to concentrate on other aspects of their business while leaving the production side of things to an experienced team.
Additionally, contract manufacturers are often well-connected in the industry, and can provide access to suppliers and other resources that can be hard to find on your own. With their help, you can easily find the parts and materials you need for your product at the best price available, allowing you to maximize your profits.
Quick Turnaround Times
One of the biggest advantages of contract manufacturing for start-ups is the quick turnaround times. Compared to an in-house manufacturing setup, contract manufacturing offers significant savings in terms of time and cost. When you outsource manufacturing, you’re able to produce your product in a fraction of the time compared to traditional production methods. This can be especially beneficial for start-ups who are looking to get their products to market as quickly as possible.
By utilizing contract manufacturing, you’ll have access to high-quality production equipment and expert technicians who are trained in advanced manufacturing processes. This allows you to produce your product in a shorter amount of time, which can lead to quicker market entry and faster returns.
Contract manufacturing also eliminates much of the overhead associated with in-house production, which can free up more resources for marketing and sales efforts.
Increased Flexibility
Contract manufacturing is an excellent option for start-ups that are looking to grow quickly and efficiently. One of the biggest benefits of contract manufacturing is increased flexibility, which can make the process of launching a product much easier.
With contract manufacturing, you don’t have to invest in costly equipment or facilities to produce your product. Instead, you partner with a contract manufacturer who will handle the production process for you. This means that you can focus on other aspects of your business, such as developing marketing strategies or building your customer base.
You also don’t have to worry about meeting large minimum order quantities when working with a contract manufacturer. This allows you to test the market before investing in a large inventory. And because you’re not tied down to one particular manufacturer, you can easily switch to another if you’re not happy with the quality or prices you’re receiving from the first.
Contract manufacturers can also provide additional services such as product design, packaging, assembly, and testing. This can reduce the amount of time it takes to launch a product as well as ensure quality control throughout the entire production process.
By partnering with a contract manufacturer, start-ups can gain access to more advanced technologies and experienced personnel, without having to invest in their own production facilities. This can help startups stay competitive in the market and bring their products to market faster.
Improved Quality Control
One of the main advantages of using contract manufacturing for start-ups is improved quality control. Contract manufacturing allows businesses to focus on quality, rather than quantity.
Because contract manufacturers specialize in their field and have years of experience, they can often produce a higher quality product than a start-up could achieve with the same amount of resources.
Contract manufacturers also typically use the latest technology and have the most up-to-date production processes in place, ensuring that products are produced consistently and with minimal defects. Additionally, contract manufacturers can provide access to advanced testing and quality assurance services to ensure that products meet required standards. This can help to reduce product returns and improve customer satisfaction.
Finally, by using contract manufacturing, start-ups can benefit from the expertise of experienced professionals who know what it takes to produce high-quality products. They will be able to guide your business through the entire production process, from design and prototype testing to final assembly. With their knowledge and experience, contract manufacturers, like Shield Works, with 17 years in the industry, can help you create products that are not only cost-effective but also reliable and of the highest quality. Contact us today!
Exploring Different Contract Manufacturing Solutions for Your Business
Did you know that the global output of manufacturing increased by over 20% from 2020 to 2021? This is a significant number, and it highlights the importance of contract manufacturing services in today’s economy.
Contract Manufacturing Solutions enable businesses to outsource specific tasks or projects that would be too expensive and time-consuming to complete in-house.
When selecting a contract manufacturing service, there are several factors to consider.
In this blog post, we will explore the different types of contract manufacturing services available. We will also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each one.
What Is Contract Manufacturing: An Overview
Contract manufacturing is an outsourcing service that provides specialized production and assembly services to other companies. This process involves transferring all or part of the manufacturing process to an external contract manufacturer.
In contract manufacturing, the contract manufacturer may be responsible for:
- Designing
- Producing
- Testing
All according to the specifications provided by their client. The contract manufacturer also assumes responsibility for:
- Raw materials
- Components sourcing
- Supply chain management
Contract manufacturing allows companies to focus on their core competencies through efficient resource use and cost reduction. This can be especially beneficial for startups who don’t yet have access to large-scale manufacturing capabilities of their own.
Contract Manufacturing Services: What’s Available
Contract manufacturing services can provide a cost-effective way for businesses to get their products manufactured according to their exact specifications. This type of service is typically provided by specialized organizations with specific capabilities and expertise in production.
Contract designing and product engineering may also be part of the services offered, as well as:
- Purchasing
- Assembly
- Packaging
- Delivery
- And other related services
Companies benefit from a streamlined production process since all services are outsourced to one provider that can handle the entire job at once. For any business that is looking to streamline its supply chain while maintaining quality control and efficiency, contract manufacturing is worth exploring.
Let’s take a look at some popular services provided by the top custom manufacturers.
Precision Assembly
Precision assembly is a contract manufacturing service designed to provide customers with highly accurate and repeatable parts assembly processes. Production of complex assemble components requires specific skills, from understanding design requirements to assembling several intricate parts.
Precision assembly services save manufacturers time and money by allowing experienced contract manufacturers with the necessary industry knowledge and qualifications to professionally assemble a wide variety of components in high precision. Industries rely on contract manufacturers like precision assembly for reliable parts manufacture and assembly, especially when complex components must be built quickly and accurately in a cost-effective manner.
Custom Manufacturing
Custom manufacturing involves contract manufacturers producing made-to-order parts according to the customer’s specifications. Companies of all sizes in almost any industry may need custom manufacturers to help bring products to life.
They offer more flexibility than traditional contract manufacturers, who often have lower minimum order quantities and are more open to changes in design and materials.
Custom manufacturers are established to meet the needs of companies wishing to produce unique or multiple products that may not fit into a contract manufacturer’s production system. These services come in especially handy when it comes to small batch production runs that might otherwise be too:
- Costly
- Time-consuming
- Complex
Warehousing and Fulfillment
Warehousing and fulfillment services provide businesses with a range of solutions related to:
- Contract manufacturing
- Product storage
- Transport of goods
These services are beneficial for businesses when they need more control over the quality standards of contract manufacturing and want to reduce infrastructure costs.
Furthermore, warehousing and fulfillment services allow businesses to consolidate multiple shipments into one service. This helps with managing inventory levels effectively, as it ensures that goods are promptly shipped out for delivery with no delays. Ultimately, these services can help streamline business operations by providing comprehensive coverage from contract manufacturing to shipping goods out.
Order Consolidation
Order consolidation is a vital service that many contract manufacturers provide. When integrated into a contract manufacturing process, it streamlines the supply chain and helps businesses to save money.
Essentially, order consolidation involves taking orders from multiple vendors and combining them into one place so that they can be shipped from one location. This allows contract manufacturers to avoid multiple shipping charges and reduce the cost of handling large numbers of single-line orders.
Order consolidation also helps contract manufacturers to save time when dealing with multiple vendors by helping to accelerate the flow of goods and materials between suppliers. By opting for order consolidation services, businesses can increase their efficiency while cutting costs at the same time.
Quality Control
Quality control is an essential part of contract manufacturing services– from ensuring regulatory and product requirements are met, to testing raw materials and confirming final product specs.
Quality control engagements may include:
- Initial supplier set-up audits to assess any potential risks
- Continual monitoring of processes in place
- Verifying records’ accuracy
- Evaluating factory conditions
- Reviewing available resources
- And more
This provides contract manufacturers with a better insight into the entire product’s lifecycle and safeguards their ability to produce a high-quality end product. Quality control services are necessary when contract manufacturers commit to meeting certain standards set by their customers and industry regulations.
Supplier ID and Management
A Supplier ID and Management System is a process that can help businesses to contract out the manufacturing of their products to outside sources. This type of service is especially advantageous when companies need to contract out production instead of making their product themselves.
With this system in place, businesses can quickly and efficiently identify new suppliers and easily obtain price comparisons. They will also be able to track and manage supplier performance to ensure that contract manufacturers comply with the specifications listed in the contract.
Supplier ID and Management services allow companies a streamlined approach to finding contract manufacturers and maintaining important supplier records.
Contract Manufacturer: What Is the Right Choice for You?
While looking for a contract manufacturer, there are several factors to consider to make the right choice for your business. Some of the key points include:
- Cost
- Quality control
- Delivery times
- Inventory management
Businesses should also evaluate the contract manufacturer’s capabilities in terms of:
- Production capacity
- Technological advancements
- Scope of services
Finally, businesses need to ensure that they are selecting a contract manufacturer who understands their particular industry and has the expertise to help them achieve their goals. By doing your research and considering all of the available options, you can find the perfect contract manufacturing solution for your business.
As long as it meets all of your needs, it will help ensure that your products are built with quality and delivered on time. With the right contract manufacturer, your business will be able to grow and succeed.
Let’s take a look at some questions you should ask your potential manufacturer before going into business with them.
Where Are They Located?
It is important to find out the exact location of your contract manufacturer. You want to make sure that they are in a suitable environment, with the necessary infrastructure to support your production. It is also important to find out the type of transportation services available for shipping and receiving goods.
However, it is also crucial to make sure that their standards are aligned with your mission statement and values.
What Certifications Do They Have?
It is important to ensure that your contract manufacturer has the necessary certifications and accreditations to produce your goods. This will ensure that you are producing a product that meets industry standards and is up to par with the quality of other products on the market. Additionally, certifications show that the contract manufacturer is reliable and reputable.
How Is Their Quality Control?
Quality control is a critical element of the contract manufacturing process. You need to find out what processes the contract manufacturer has in place to ensure that the quality of their products meets the standards listed in your contract.
It is also important to ensure that they are using updated technologies and processes that meet the industry requirements.
Take a Look At Their Experience
Experience is key when it comes to contract manufacturing. Make sure that your potential contract manufacturer has the necessary experience to meet all of your needs. You should also ask for references and check into their past projects to get an idea of the quality of their work.
What Is Their Process?
The ideal process of a contract manufacturer should include:
- Access to global resources
- Monitoring and oversight of the production process
- Transparency in communication and operations
- Global integration
Access to global sources is paramount for businesses looking for contract manufacturing solutions as this allows them to source the best materials at competitive prices for their product.
In addition, having an open line of communication with their contract manufacturer allows businesses to have a better understanding of the production process and oversee the quality control measures that are put in place.
Transparency in communication is also important for companies as this fosters trust between them and their contract manufacturer. Transparency ensures that companies are made aware of any changes that may affect the production process or timeline so they can ensure that everything is running according to plan.
Finally, having a contract manufacturer with a strong global presence increases efficiency in terms of delivery times and access to more resources. This type of global integration also helps businesses expand into new markets without having to worry about finding local manufacturing solutions.
All these factors should be taken into consideration when searching for a reliable contract manufacturer who can provide solutions tailored specifically to your business needs.
What About Security?
Before signing any contract with a manufacturer, make sure that their data protection policies and processes are in line with industry standards. Make sure that all information shared between your company and the manufacturer is securely encrypted and stored. Additionally, you should also ask about the measures taken by the contract manufacturer to protect your intellectual property rights so that your products remain safe from misuse or theft.
By asking these questions when looking for contract manufacturing solutions, you can ensure that your business finds a reliable partner who can help it grow and succeed in the long run. You will be able to find a contract manufacturer who meets all of your needs while still maintaining competitive prices and quality control measures.
Upcoming and Current Trends in Contract Manufacturing: What to Know
For those looking for contract manufacturing services, it is important to stay up to date on the latest trends in the field. This ensures that projects are completed effectively and efficiently while avoiding any costly over-complication of processes.
Currently, many experts in the manufacturing industry are recommending that companies use product lifecycle management (PLM) software to streamline certain product assembly processes. In addition, there is a recent trend towards more hybrid models of advanced automation and traditional manual labor. This blended approach capitalizes on both manpower technology and automated solutions to maximize speed and accuracy across the entire workflow.
For those looking to contract high-quality product assembly services, it is invaluable knowledge to stay aware of these upcoming trends to efficiently get their products ready for market.
Get Started with Shield Works Today
If you’re looking for a contract manufacturer that can provide quality solutions tailored specifically to your business needs, Shield Works is here to help. We have over two decades of experience in the industry and are experts in providing high-quality product assembly services.
Contact us today to get started on contract manufacturing!
7 Tips for Improve Your Assembly Line Efficiency
When it comes to improving your assembly line efficiency, there are two important factors to consider: the flow of materials through the production process and the performance of your employees on the assembly line. Here are seven tips for improving your assembly line efficiency based on these factors.
1) Know your process
When it comes to improving the efficiency of an assembly line, the first step is to understand the process. Before you can make any changes or adjustments, you need to have a clear picture of how your assembly line works. Take some time to observe the operations and make notes of any issues or areas that could be improved.
Talk with the people working on the line and find out what they think. Are there any bottlenecks or points where things slow down? Is the process running smoothly or could it be optimized? Are there any potential hazards or safety risks that need to be addressed? Gathering information from those who are closest to the process can help identify where improvements can be made.
Next, research and compare other assembly lines in your industry. How do their processes differ from yours? What can you learn from their systems and procedures? Utilizing this knowledge can help you make informed decisions about changes to your own process.
Finally, review all of your findings and determine which steps will lead to the most efficient assembly line. Make sure you consider how any proposed changes will affect the workers, as well as the overall efficiency of the operation.
2) Assess your current efficiency
When it comes to improving the efficiency of an assembly line, the first step is assessing where you currently stand. Taking a look at your production process from beginning to end is essential for identifying any bottlenecks and inefficiencies that could be hampering your progress.
Start by looking at your current processes, machines, and personnel. Note how many items you’re able to produce per shift and any problems that arise during production. Are there any tasks or processes that take too long or could be improved with automation? Are there any areas where workers are having to wait around for machines or materials?
Another important step in assessing your current efficiency is tracking and analyzing your data. What does your data say about the performance of your assembly line? Are there any trends in production speed, quality, or errors that you can spot? By collecting and analyzing data on your current processes, you can identify problem areas and find ways to make improvements.
3) Develop goals for improvement
The next step to improving your assembly line efficiency is to develop goals for improvement. What areas need to be improved? Make sure your goals are measurable and achievable. Set timeframes for each goal and have milestones in place to check progress.
When setting goals, think about overall efficiency, quality control, cost reduction, and safety. For example, if you want to increase productivity, consider adding more workers or reducing the amount of idle time.
If you want to improve safety, focus on training employees on how to do their job safely and work with maintenance personnel when there are mechanical issues with machinery. You can also use innovative technology like sensors or robotics which may help make your workplace safer or more efficient.
4) Simplify your process
Having an organized assembly line can reduce production time and make it easier to identify problems and find solutions. This can be done by using tools like workflow charts and boards to document each step of the production process and identify any areas that could be improved.
The goal here is to reduce the number of steps needed to complete a task and make it easier for people to quickly find and address any problems that may arise.
For example, if you’re dealing with large-scale orders, you may want to look into implementing a batching system that allows you to complete multiple orders at once rather than working on them one-by-one. This can help you increase efficiency while reducing the amount of time and effort required to process orders.
5) Automate where possible
If you are looking to improve the efficiency of your assembly line, automating certain tasks is a great place to start. Automation can free up time and labor costs while providing consistency in production. Automating certain processes can also help to reduce errors and increase accuracy.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to automation; there are many variables that go into determining which process should be automated and what type of technology would be best suited.
It’s important to remember that automation doesn’t always mean replacing human workers with robots. In many cases, automation can take the form of integrating machines with existing manual processes.
For example, you could introduce automated sorting and counting systems to your assembly line to speed up processes and reduce the number of employees needed. Automation can also make it easier to track data, allowing you to better optimize production. With the right automation system in place, you can save time, money, and resources while boosting your assembly line efficiency.
6) Implement quality control measures
One of the best ways to make sure your assembly line runs as efficiently as possible is to implement quality control measures. Quality control allows you to monitor each step of the process and ensure that products are being manufactured in accordance with industry standards and that defects are avoided.
One of the first steps to take when implementing quality control is to identify potential sources of error in your assembly line. This could include reviewing blueprints, inspecting materials, and monitoring machines for proper performance. Once potential issues are identified, you can begin taking steps to prevent them.
You should also consider introducing quality control procedures into your assembly line. These procedures help ensure that products are consistently produced according to specifications and that defective products are identified and removed from circulation. It may also be a good idea to introduce defect tracking systems so that you can better monitor the performance of your assembly line and identify areas where improvements can be made.
Finally, it’s important to create a culture of quality control within your production facility. Encouraging employees to adhere to quality standards, recognizing those who excel in their jobs, and providing opportunities for continuous improvement will all go a long way towards ensuring that your assembly line runs efficiently and effectively.
7) Train your employees
Proper training ensures that each employee understands the expectations, job duties, and safety protocols associated with their role in the assembly line process. Training also gives employees the tools and knowledge they need to work efficiently and complete tasks quickly.
For example, teaching employees about the standard operating procedures for their tasks can help streamline the entire assembly line process. By doing so, each employee will understand what is expected of them and be able to move through the tasks more quickly and accurately.
Additionally, employees should be taught how to properly use any equipment they may encounter along the line. Proper training is essential to prevent errors and ensure that the assembly line runs smoothly, and make sure that your employees are aware of the importance of following safety protocols while on the assembly line.
6 Benefits of Product Assembly Services in China
China accounted for at least 30% of the global manufacturing output in 2021. This speaks to the depth of China’s manufacturing capabilities. When you’re looking to make a new product or upgrade an old one, choosing China as your assembly location is a wise decision.
Product assembly in China is a cost-effective way to get your product on the market faster. Here are the top 6 benefits of using Chinese manufacturing services.
1. Lowers Manufacturing Costs
Labor costs in China are lower than they are in the U.S., Europe, and elsewhere. The average Chinese manufacturing worker earns about one-tenth the hourly wage of a typical U.S. factory employee. Outsourcing your assembly of products to China will always be the more affordable option.
China also has access to raw materials that are cheaper than they are in other countries. This is because China is the world’s largest steel producer, so the country has access to high-grade steel at a low price. Chinese manufacturers can also source materials like copper and aluminum at a more affordable rate.
2. Reduces Shipping Costs and Time
When you ship items in their raw form, this process adds considerable cost to your shipment. It also contributes to time delays because you’ll be receiving components from different suppliers.
It usually takes about 2 – 35 days to ship an item from China to the United States. Shipping multiple items can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Your product will have a longer development cycle and take more time before you can release it to the market.
With an assembly service provider on your side, they can eliminate all these issues by sending a bulk shipment of finished products. By shipping in bulk, you’ll also significantly reduce transport costs and delivery times.
Manufacturing facilities have everything necessary for production available onsite, including a standard inventory. They can assemble the products without having to wait for shipments or worry about getting enough parts for each unit.
3. Faster Assembly of Products
Manufacturing in China relies heavily on an assembly line method, where workers are assigned specific tasks. These employees must complete a single task repeatedly while still maintaining high standards of quality control. Because of this, companies can mass-produce a wider array of products that all have a uniform design.
Machinery also contributes to faster production times. Using mechanization, companies can produce more products in a day than they would be able to if each product were made by hand.
The ability to produce large quantities quickly also makes China an attractive option for businesses that create custom designs, such as wedding planners. Producing unique designs is a challenge for most businesses, but China has a large pool of talent that can help to bring new ideas to life. Chinese factory workers also have lots of experience in working with different materials, so they can create products that meet all your specifications.
4. Streamlines the Ordering Process
You don’t have to order a humongous amount of components and store them while they wait for assembly. Instead, you can send your design and specifications to a Chinese factory. They will handle the entire manufacturing process for you.
They’ll order all the required pieces and tools. All that’s required of you is to pay shipping fees.
You also get to experience the benefits of ordering a prototype. You can test its functionality and design before ordering multiple units.
5. Less Workers
Factory workers perform product assembly services in-house. There’s no need to add new workers to your team to complete your project. You also won’t need additional equipment since the factory already has all the necessary tools and machinery on site.
The average factory worker earns about $33,000/year in the U.S. You’ll have to bear this expense in addition to any other manufacturing costs that may arise.
These costs can add up quickly and put you in a financial bind. When you use an assembly service, however, you won’t have to pay tons of new employees. The factory will handle all the labor costs associated with your project, so you don’t have to worry about it!
6. More Freedom
If you decide to outsource your assembly work, you can focus on the core aspects of your business. This will allow you to put more time and effort into marketing and sales or anything else that is important for the success of your business.
Outsourcing assembly also removes the task of having to supervise workers, which is time-consuming and costly. You also don’t have to worry about the quality of your product because the factory will ensure that the assembly team follows every step correctly.
You’ll have a more flexible schedule. As a result, you’ll be able to meet with customers or work on other projects. This will allow you to develop a friendly relationship with your customers, which will keep them coming back for more.
Outsource Your Product Assembly
Product assembly in China is a great way to offload certain processes and create a lower overhead. These benefits can lead to increased profitability and more time to focus on other areas of your business.
When you outsource your product assembly, it’s important to work with a trustworthy supplier. Shield Works Precision Manufacturing has been making quality products for over 16 years. We have a track record of delivering products on time and at a competitive price.
Contact us to learn more about our services. We’ll help you find an efficient solution that works for your business.
10 Boxes to Check Before Choosing a Product Supplier in China
If you’re serious about your business, you want to work with the best product supplier in China. A high-quality product made in China is crucial to your success, because if it isn’t up to par, then you won’t be able to compete with other businesses in your field. However, finding the right product supplier isn’t always easy – here are 10 boxes to check before choosing one to do business with.
1) Does the supplier have a good reputation?
Reputation is key when choosing a good supplier. Ask for references and read reviews from people who have used their products. If the feedback is positive, it’s likely that the supplier has a good reputation. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about their experience with the company and production quality. You want to make sure that you’re not just trusting someone based on what they say, but what they do as well.
2) How long has the supplier been in business?
A company’s longevity can be an indication of its success, so you should make sure that the supplier has been in business for at least three years. Once you’ve found a supplier with a good track record, it will be easier for you to establish trust with them and build your relationship.
Moreover, how long has the supplier been in business is often indicative of their product quality. Manufacturers that have been around for decades can afford higher-quality materials than start-ups because they’ve had time to establish themselves and develop relationships with suppliers. Therefore, when you’re choosing between two suppliers that are roughly equal on other factors, it’s generally safe to go with the one that has more experience behind them.
3) Is the supplier certified?
It’s also important that the supplier you choose is certified. You want someone who has gone through all the certification process necessary for importing and exporting goods from China, so you know they’re going to be legally compliant and up-to-date with all requirements.
Here’s a list of certificates or documentations you can check for.
1) Are there business licenses (including both Chinese and your country of import)?
2) Is there proof of customs clearance (including: export license, import license, customs declaration form)?
3) Do they have manufacturing certifications? There are three certifications that we like our manufacturers to have – ISO9001, ISO14001 and OHSAS 18000.
4) What kind of insurance do they have in place?
4) What is the minimum order quantity?
The minimum order quantity (MOQ) is the number of units that you have to buy from the supplier. It’s important because it will affect your profitability.
There’s no hard and fast rule for how large your minimum order quantity should be, but it all depends on how much it will cost you to buy those items. Take into account any shipping costs that are applicable, as well as possible tariffs and taxes.
For example, if you’re ordering small quantities of product samples from an overseas supplier that’s relatively close by, they may offer you free shipping. If they don’t offer free international shipping, however, that could make your products prohibitively expensive.
5) What are the payment terms?
Ideally, you want an invoice that is settled within 30 days of the shipment of goods. If they don’t offer terms then it is important to find out how often they require payment and what their payment terms are.
Your payment terms should also specify how late payments are accepted. If they accept payments late (for more than 30 days), it may not be ideal. If they do not accept late payments, find out how long it takes for them to send you a reminder before sending your account to collections or blacklisting you from future business.
6) How much experience does the supplier have?
Experience is important because it reflects the supplier’s ability to produce quality products. To figure out how experienced the supplier is, you’ll need to ask about their experience. If they’ve been around for more than five years, they’re more likely to be a reliable option.
But don’t stop there. After you verify the supplier’s experience, make sure that they can handle your volume and product needs by asking if they have any examples of past projects and inquiring about the size of their team and production capacity.
Also, the type of products they have experience is crucial. One way to know this is to check what industry awards they may have won. Awards are often indicative of an organization’s professionalism and dedication to excellence, which is always a good sign when looking for suppliers.
7) What is the lead time?
The lead time is the amount of time it will take for you to receive your order. This can vary greatly depending on what type of product you are ordering. For something as simple as pens, the lead time can be as little as two weeks. But for something more complicated like electronics, you will need much more than that and might need up to 20 weeks, if including product design and development, before your order arrives.
8) Can the supplier provide samples?
If you can’t see and touch the product, it’s hard to know how well the supplier will be able to make it. You want samples of any products you’re interested in for your own reference, but also so that you can show them off and gauge interest from potential clients.
Even if your product is unique, any buyer will expect to be able to touch and feel it for themselves. It’s important that you can get actual samples of your product before placing an order with your supplier. It may not be free, but this will give you time to check quality, so you can make changes or correct any issues with your design before you place a mass order. Make sure your contract allows for multiple revisions on prototypes so that more expensive mistakes are minimized as much as possible.
9) What is the quality control process?
A quality control process is an important step for any company. It helps identify and manage risks that may affect your product quality. The goal of the process is to ensure that your products are safe and meet certain standards.
If you’re not sure what kind of processes to expect, then you should ask your supplier about their quality control procedures. You should also check with the manufacturer about their procedures as well.
They will be able to provide specific details on how they produce their goods. For example, if you want to know more about how they make textile items, they’ll likely tell you exactly what type of fabrics they use or what chemicals they dye their fabric with.
You can also ask for a sample of their checklist so that you have a better understanding of their system.
10) What is the warranty?
You should also ask about the warranty on the product. Is it one year or two years? If it’s one year, what is the cost for an extended warranty? A supplier may have different warranties for different types of products.
For example, if you are buying a refrigerator and there is an issue with its compressor after six months, but not with its ice maker, then the compressor would likely be covered under warranty while the ice maker would not be.
If you are buying light fixtures from your supplier that have bulbs included and you find out that the bulbs only last for three hundred hours before they burn out, ask about how many replacements will be included during your time of purchase.
Shield Works has been around for over 17 years already with industry-spanning experience. Contact us today to see how we can help!
The Benefits of Outsourcing OEM Manufacturing Services
Did you know that China has accounted for 28% of worldwide manufacturing output?
It can be hard to keep up with the latest manufacturing trends and processes, especially when it comes to outsourcing.
Outsourcing your OEM manufacturing can seem like a daunting task. You’re worried about quality, delivery time, and price points. You don’t want to sacrifice your bottom line or product quality.
When you work with an experienced and reputable outsourced OEM manufacturer, you’ll get the best of all worlds. Quality products, on-time delivery, and competitive prices are all possible when you partner with the right company.
But that’s not all. Keep reading to learn all about the amazing benefits of outsourcing OEM manufacturing services!
What Is OEM Manufacturing?
OEM manufacturing is the process of designing and manufacturing products or components that will be sold by another company under its brand name. Many businesses choose to outsource OEM manufacturing services to stay competitive and meet consumer demand.
The Benefits of Outsourcing OEM manufacturing
There are several benefits to outsourcing OEM manufacturing. They include:
Staying Competitive
Outsourcing OEM manufacturing can help you stay competitive in today’s market. By working with a reliable and experienced manufacturer, you’ll be able to get your products to market quickly and efficiently. This will allow you to keep up with the competition and meet the needs of your customers.
Meeting Consumer Demand
Outsourcing OEM manufacturing can also help you meet consumer demand. By working with a reputable manufacturer, you’ll be able to get your products to market quickly and efficiently. This will allow you to meet the needs of your customers and keep up with the competition.
Cost-Effective
Outsourcing OEM manufacturing can also be cost-effective. By working with a reliable manufacturer, you’ll be able to get your products to market quickly and efficiently. This will allow you to save money on production costs and stay within your budget.
Flexible Production Schedules
When you outsource OEM manufacturing, you’ll have the flexibility to choose when and how your products are produced. This will allow you to meet the demands of your customers and keep up with the competition.
Access to Expertise
When entrusting your product to an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), you want to be sure that it is in good hands. This is why it is important to consider the experience and expertise of the company you are outsourcing to.
A company with a long history in the industry is likely to have a wealth of knowledge and skills that can be put to use in manufacturing your product. In addition, look for a company that employs certified professionals.
This will give you peace of mind knowing that your product is being handled by experts. When you have access to experienced and skilled professionals, you can be confident that you will get the best possible quality for your products.
Improved Quality
Outsourcing OEM manufacturing can also lead to improved quality. By working with a reputable manufacturer, you’ll be able to get your products to market quickly and efficiently. This will allow you to meet the needs of your customers and improve the quality of your products.
Enhanced Customer Service
When you outsource OEM manufacturing, you’ll have access to enhanced customer service. With a reliable manufacturer, you’ll be able to get your products to market quickly and efficiently.
This will allow you to meet the needs of your customers, avoid conflict and provide them with the best possible service. In today’s competitive marketplace, it’s essential to offer outstanding customer service.
By partnering with a reputable manufacturer, you can be sure that your products will meet the highest standards. This will give your customers confidence in your brand and help to build loyalty. In turn, this will lead to more sales and continued success for your business.
Increased Sales
Increased sales are one of the main advantages of outsourcing OEM manufacturing. When you partner with a reputable manufacturer, you’ll be able to get your products to market quickly and efficiently.
This will allow you to meet the needs of your customers and increase your sales. In addition, outsourcing gives you the flexibility to scale up or down as needed, which can help you respond quickly to changes in demand.
As a result, outsourcing can be a highly effective way to grow your business and improve your bottom line.
Improved Delivery Times
When you outsource OEM manufacturing, you’ll have access to improved delivery times. By working with a reliable manufacturer, you’ll be able to get your products to market quickly and efficiently.
This will allow you to meet the needs of your customers and improve your delivery times. In today’s highly competitive marketplace, being able to deliver products quickly is essential.
With improved delivery times, you’ll be able to stay ahead of your competition and keep your customers happy. When you work with a reputable manufacturer, you can count on getting your products delivered on time and in perfect condition.
This will help you build a loyal customer base and keep your business growing. If you’re looking for a way to improve your delivery times, outsourcing OEM manufacturing is the answer.
Greater Efficiency
When it comes to manufacturing, efficiency is key. The faster you can get your products to market, the better. That’s why outsourcing to electrical OEM manufacturers can be such a boon for businesses.
By partnering with a reputable manufacturer, you’ll be able to get your products to market quickly and efficiently. This will allow you to meet the needs of your customers and improve your efficiency.
In today’s competitive marketplace, that can make all the difference. So if you’re looking to streamline your manufacturing process, outsourcing OEM manufacturing is worth considering.
Ready to Outsource OEM Manufacturing?
When it comes to your business, you always want what’s best for production. Efficiency and quality are important, which is why working with an OEM manufacturer can be extremely beneficial.
They have the experience and understanding of your product to help improve manufacturing. Not only will they provide high-quality parts, but they can also save you time and money in the long run.
If you want to ensure a high level of quality control, contact us now to see how we can help with your OEM manufacturing
Is Your 3rd-Party QC Up to Snuff? How to Avoid Quality Control Pitfalls in China
3rd-party quality control, or QC, is vital to maintaining standards in any industry, but especially so in the China sourcing industry. However, many buyers fail to realize that 3rd-party QC is only as strong as the people performing it and the processes they follow. Use these tips to make sure your 3rd-party QC agents are up to snuff and can help you avoid quality control pitfalls in China.
Define Your Product Requirements
Be clear on how you want your product to end up and be specific on all the metrics. It’s not just about quality of raw materials, but also what that means for finished products: Is it meant to last 5 years, or is it disposable after a few months?
It’s important to make sure you have a clear vision of what you want before approaching any factories. For example, are you looking for someone who can create a prototype quickly and cheaply so you can get feedback from potential customers, or do you need high volume production with a tight turnaround time?
Defining these requirements will help you find the right QC partner. You should also research their past work as well as industry reviews. There are plenty of 3rd-party QC companies out there; use them if needed to ensure quality control standards are met.
Understand Your 3rd-Party QC Companies
It is important to have a clear understanding of the quality control process and what type of 3rd-party QC company you are hiring. Use the following questions when interviewing your potential vendors:
1) What is your quality control process?
2) Who performs the inspections?
3) Where are these inspections performed at?
4) What type of inspection do you perform (i.e. 100% inspection)?
5) What experience do you have with this particular product line or industry segment?
It’s always better to get everything straightened out upfront, which is also another effective way to maintain a good relationship with your 3rd-party QC company. After all, they will be working with your products on a day-to-day basis so it’s important that they feel comfortable knowing exactly what their role entails and that they know how you want them to do their job and that you are comfortable with how they do it!
Make Your Communication Simple But On-Point
Although most of the QC inspectors in China can speak English fluently, it is still better to make your language plain and simple. After all, there are still some inevitable cultural barriers. Make sure you clearly communicate what you want and provide detailed instructions on how you want them to do it.
Be clear about what mistakes or problems you want them to look for or find out. A specific set of specifications may be necessary if it’s your first time working with this factory.
Maintain communication with them. Email is not as common of a messaging tool in China as in the west. WeChat is the most widely-used IM app there.
Develop Your QC System
There are three major factors that should be considered into the process of developing your own QC system, which will benefit you in the long run of your business.
1. Know what you’re looking for
Make sure that the standards you’re looking for are spelled out and that your vendor is on board with them, too. This will help prevent any miscommunication down the line.
2. Create a checklist for your quality control process
Make sure you’re including every step of the process so there are no surprises when it’s time to pass inspection.
3. Choose an inspector that knows your need
Someone who can provide the kind of feedback that you need on your product, such as if it should be rejected or not, or if it needs more work before it’s ready to move on to the next step in production or shipping.
Once you’ve done that, you’re ready to keep your quality control on track. Don’t be discouraged by problems if they arise! They can be obstacles for any growing business, and most of all, don’t forget about checking a second opinion. It can help you take necessary precautions and avoid future errors altogether.
Evaluate the Results
Your QC process is not over yet although after mass production. You should always evaluate the results of your quality control process by sampling your goods. You can do this by taking a sample of every 100th unit or randomly selecting every 100th unit, counting the number of errors, and using these figures to calculate a rate of defects per hundred (called defects per hundred).
The defects per hundred tells you how many defects there are in 100 pieces of a certain product. If your defect rate is high, it means that you need more time for corrective measures and new quality control procedures before starting the next round of production.
When evaluating your results, don’t stop at a defect per hundred rate. Look for patterns and reasons for each defect you find.
The next step is to evaluate your quality control process as a whole. If you notice one specific defect occurring frequently, then there is something going wrong in production that needs addressing immediately.
Conversely, if you notice different types of defects occurring often, it could be because there is something wrong with your entire quality control process.
Shield Works is highly experienced in 3rd-party QC with 17 years under the belt. Talk to us today, and know more about how our team can safeguard the production of your product!
6 Ways to Streamline Your Custom Manufacturing Process
Several industries rely on original equipment manufacturing (OEM). It plays a critical role in the business world, with Data Bridge reporting that it’s valued at $39,503.36 million.
Your custom manufacturing processes can set you apart from your competitors. Enhancing your systems can help you become more efficient. The question is, how can you improve your processes?
There are several tips for improving your customer manufacturing processes. These tips can help you with several types of processes, including control, primary, and support processes.
We’ll outline six of these steps in this guide. So, keep reading to learn more about the best improvements for your manufacturing process!
1. Discover Places Where Waste Occurs
First, look for places in your manufacturing company that waste time or resources. It may take some work to notice it, but many manufacturing companies have redundant processing stages or tasks.
There are several examples of such tasks. Many custom manufacturing services repeat one necessary task several times. However, the task only needs completion once.
How can you tell what processes cause waste? First, examine every stage of your manufacturing process. Does each step add value to your product or your custom manufacturing services?
If not, consider revising the process. Remove those unnecessary steps, so each phase of the process improves your product.
Then, move on from your processes to examining your machinery. The manufacturing industry relies on top-notch machinery to produce the best products.
So, consider whether your machinery is up-to-date. If your machinery seems outdated, consider investing in a new machine. New equipment can speed up your processes and improve your product quality.
2. Improve Your Custom Manufacturing Service Quality
It’s crucial to make improvements throughout your process. These improvements can greatly enhance your final product and cost less money in the long run. So, how can you begin improving your quality?
First, start by discerning the best raw materials for your equipment. The department that receives these materials should have a checklist that includes every necessary resource.
Then, create a checklist for your quality control staff. This checklist should include some of the following criteria:
- Ensure every order is correct
- Ensure the quantity is accurate
- Check for potential defects
During the manufacturing process, inspect your stages once again. If any problems occur during the manufacturing process, halt the process.
This pause can give you time to address the issue and ensure it doesn’t happen again. Preventing errors can save time and money in the future.
3. Improve Team Communications Within Your Company
Another way to improve your custom manufacturing is to bolster internal communications between your teams. Your communication can make or break your manufacturing processes.
Fortunately, there are several ways to improve your team’s communications. One of the most common approaches is to use communication software and technology.
First, consider using communication software. For example, moving your internal documents to an online cloud server can make communication between teams more efficient. This way, your teams can access any essential files from a single source.
Another way to improve communication is to use radio systems. Radio devices can help people communicate over long distances on the company premises. This technology provides a convenient way to inform other workers of necessities and problems that arise on-site.
Some communication technology is simpler to use, as well as cheaper. For example, many companies use the smartphone app Slack to communicate with each other. Since people generally keep their phones on them, this can be a quick and effective way to boost communication.
4. Stick to Deadlines to Improve Custom Manufacturing
Increased communication can provide several permeable benefits. One example of this is the ability to communicate better about deadlines and other information.
Weak communication leads to confusion about several things, such as deadlines, task instructions, and company roles. When this confusion rises, it bottlenecks your operation.
This bottleneck makes the company less efficient when it affects your deadlines. So, follow these strategies to ensure you have clear deadlines:
- provide clarity for co-workers, suppliers, and customers about when their deadlines are due
- provide shared goals for everyone to hit
- motivate your employees to hit higher performance levels
Another critical factor is to set deadlines that your employees can reasonably meet. Clear deadlines do no good for your company if workers can’t feasibly meet them.
5. Go Paperless In Your Job
Another way to streamline your work processes is to get rid of paper documents. It’s much easier to lose paper files than to organize them. Paper documents also take up more space, allowing for a higher likelihood of workplace clutter.
In contrast, digital documents are much easier to track and locate. You won’t have to sift through dozens of boxes to find the necessary documents. Instead, you can discover the required files quickly because they’re in a single place.
6. Introduce On-The-Job Training
Another way to streamline your custom manufacturing is by introducing on-the-job training. Lifelong learning is an incredible way to improve your employee’s motivation and efficiency.
The primary aim of this training is to help employees make as much progress as possible. Ideally, this training should also take the shortest possible timeframe.
This training provides several advantages:
- explore the job’s daily tasks and details
- receive immediate feedback to correct any mistakes
- take less time to train and boost productivity
The best part about on-the-job training is that it gives an excellent way to evaluate your employees’ results. This feature allows you to determine which parts of your training program work and what needs revisions.
Find a Custom Manufacturing Service
Custom manufacturing companies can streamline their processes by using these tips. However, it’s challenging to find a company that incorporates these strategies into its operation.
That’s where our company comes in. We are a British-owned company that supplies custom manufacturing needs for many businesses. Contact us today if you need custom manufacturing services!