For startup companies, taking the first step in producing equipment, devices, systems or components is always the most difficult. It is a time when there is a need to work with contracted companies to provide specialized services and choosing the wrong contract manufacturer can have very big implications on the cost and on-time production of the order.
There are some simple questions to focus on when comparing different contract electronics manufacturing companies. A common mistake with many startup Original Equipment Manufacturers is to first consider price, but there are far more important issues to consider before looking at the bottom line.
Size of the Company
Some contract electronics manufacturing companies are relatively small companies that do business on a local, regional or even a national level depending on the business model they use. Other companies are international, offering the benefit of manufacturing at lower prices and in specialized markets where raw materials, 3PL or third party logistic providers and even shipping options are all conveniently located.
The size of the company is also important for production capacity, the stability of the company as well as past experience in working with orders that are similar to yours. Be sure to ask about the last point, the more expertise the company has in similar orders, the better the match will be for your project.
Certifications and Standards
Most of the larger contract electronics manufacturing companies will have a specific quality control practices in place that are approved through ISO 9001:2008 quality control standards. For the medical device industry, look for ISO 13458 registration as well as the company being UL, CSA, and CE listed and approved.
These levels of standards, which are voluntary in the industry, demonstrate a commitment to customer service and quality control that will be essential for your electronics manufacturing needs.
