For small to mid-sized electronic companies, making the decision to outsource their assembly
electronic processes is a bit of a no-brainer. The cost to work with a third-party professional is often much less than it would be to hire a full team of skilled laborers, and the burden of purchasing and maintaining expensive equipment is removed from your shoulders. When you've got an excellent outsource vendor on your team, you can remain competitive with larger-scale industries and grow your business.
The problem, though, is knowing who you can put your confidence in. Who will have the ability to take care of all of your needs - from design to fulfillment services? Who will process your batch orders in a timely manner? Who will construct your PC boards with the highest quality and most affordable parts? All of these questions must be answered before you can hire an outside company to assist with your product's electronic assembly. This post will help you to distinguish the best from the rest so that you can put your confidence in a superior contract manufacturer.
Put Your Trust in a Contract Manufacturer Who…
…Has Industry Experience
Startup companies are often quite enthusiastic about taking on new clients, and may even offer irresistibly low prices. It's important to remember, though, that experience pays. You should always look for a business that has been handling electronic assembly for years. Don't' hesitate to ask your prospective contract manufacturer how long they have actually been in business, as well as what their hiring requirements are for their employees. Is their team comprised of seasoned veterans? This is always ideal.
…Is Multi-Talented
Even if you initially think that you'll only need a contract manufacturer for the production aspect of the assembly electronic process, you should take the time to seek out a company that is able to handle a variety of related tasks. At some point in the future you may find that your design and engineering team is stuck on a problem with one of your PC boards, or needs some assistance in coming up with a new prototype for a device on very short notice. In situations like these, its good to know that you have someone on your team who can help you out in your moment of need.
…Is Based in America
Taking your business off shore isn't a good idea for several reasons. First, you are reducing the amount of work that your company is producing for American laborers who are in need. Secondly, many overseas contract manufacturing businesses tend to make use of counterfeit components and parts. While this may not seem like that big of a deal at first glance, it can create big problems. If parts used aren't up to US industry codes and requirements, you could be fined and forced to recall your products. A faulty unit as a result of counterfeit parts can also result in a lawsuit or harm to another person. It's in your best interest to stick with an American company that adheres to a higher standard.
…Is Well-Connected
Save money on the parts that you purchase without having to sacrifice quality or safety by finding a contract manufacturing company that has strongly established relationships with suppliers. This will ensure that you will always get the fairest and lowest prices possible for the components required for your boards.
…Stands Behind Its Work
Never trust a contract manufacturer who doesn't offer a warranty or stand behind the boards that it produces. While some companies may try to sever ties after the assembly and manufacture process, a trustworthy company will offer fulfillment services, troubleshooting, and repair to reduce warranty replacement costs.
Finding a contract manufacturer that you can trust with your assembly electronic processes isn't as difficult as you might imagine. By seeking out these characteristics, you can have confidence in your partner and in the quality of your products.
