Once you have decided to outsource your product assembly, the next big step that you need to take is selecting a contract electronics manufacturer (CEM). In order to ensure that you choose the right partner, it is critical that you accurately assess what you need from your CEM.
To help you make the right decision and select a contract manufacturing partner that will be an asset to your company, we have put together this short guide on how to assess your outsourcing requirements.
A guide to assessing your contract electronics manufacturing requirements
Here is a rundown of the key requirements you may wish to measure when assessing CEMs for your product assembly:
- Industry experience
Assess the industry experience of your CEM candidate. Do they have a proven track record in your industry? Such specialist know-how will speak to their ability to meet your product-assembly requirements, while broad-ranging expertise means they are equipped to offer advice and services that could improve your product.
- Regulatory compliance
Assess the ability of your potential CEM partner to assemble your products according to the appropriate national and international standards of the markets where your products will be sold. Can they consistently deliver the same precision and quality?
- Manufacturing capacity
Assess the ability of your contract manufacturer candidate to deliver the volumes you need when you want them. They should have the manufacturing capacity to meet this demand and the flexibility to adapt to changes in your schedule parameters and to your product specification.
- Dedicated expertise
Assess the industry expertise of your potential outsourcing partner. They should have an expert workforce, including design and engineering specialists with extensive experience in their fields. Does your CEM candidate demonstrate a clear commitment to staff development and to maintaining the highest operational standards?
- Latest equipment
Assess the equipment of your potential CEM partner. Do they should use the latest technology, including bespoke software and hardware, and innovative practices? Regular investment in these capabilities should be a clearly defined part of their development strategy.
- Strong supply chain
Assess the supplier network of your potential contract manufacturing partner. Do they have a strong supplier network? Is it managed by an advanced supply management system that offers complete transparency and traceability? Does it allow for the monitoring of stock availability at the global level? This will help to secure favourable pricing, optimise lead times and maximise cost-efficiency.
- Testing resources
Assess the capacity of your candidate CEM to carry out the rigorous testing of product assemblies. Can your potential contract manufacturer perform a range of tests in a variety of environments either on their premises or through expert partners? This will help to ensure that your quality requirements are consistently met.
- Bespoke packaging
Assess the packaging services of your potential contract manufacturing partner. Can they provide bespoke packaging according to your exact specifications, including fully packaged components in custom and market-ready configurations?
To find out how MPE Electronics product assembly services can benefit your business, contact us on +44 (0)1825 764822 or enquiries@mpe-electronics.co.uk.
