Every business faces difficulties and challenges. They must be overcome to avoid losses or failure. But companies involved in manufacturing can feel particularly under pressure. There are many factors that will affect the business. Orders by volume can go up and down so managing the production process can be extremely hard. Then, of course, are all the problems associated with the production line. It’s tough to be a manufacturer at times!
If your business specializes in processing or manufacturing goods, you may rely quite heavily on machinery. It is often necessary to order bespoke equipment to cope with the demands of your factory site. It may be tailored to the materials you use in the manufacturing process. Whenever you order new equipment, ensure there is a good servicing agreement in place. What will happen if your machinery breaks down? If you can’t get things up and running, you could be losing thousands.
A successful business is aware of how much the manufacturing processes cost each hour. You should be able to calculate how much profit it could be making. You can then see the cost to your business of any downtime. Your customers may certainly be making you aware of what it’s costing them each hour you are late with an order!
There are plenty of reasons why a machine may develop a fault or stop working. One of the most common problems is a blockage. The materials you put in at one end may be at risk of clumping together before they reach the other end of the process. This can spell disaster for your factory line. Engineered systems like an airsweep can help eliminate this kind of problem by reducing the risk of blockages. A successful business relies on its equipment as well as the employees using it.
You should also ensure regular cleaning, clearing, servicing and maintenance of your equipment. If you are handling food products, you may be legally obliged to perform certain tasks by regulation. Train your staff to identify potential hazards and problems. This can help reduce your downtown and potential losses. You may choose to have an engineering technician on your team in-house to manage any problems.
Many clients request a Service Level Agreement. This happens when they contract your business for a project or job. You need to agree on the terms of the contract. It’s important you don’t make promises that you don’t have a proven history of keeping. Some say machines can be temperamental. Others say the Gremlins are in the works. Your clients will say you’re fired. They may even commence compensatory actions against you if you can’t meet the agreed requirements.
It’s not just the machines that can have an ‘off’ day. Your employees may fall ill, or take annual leave. It is sometimes essential to have a minimum number of qualified staff in attendance. As the manager, you must ensure your company can handle these disruptions safely. Whatever market you serve and however many clients you have, always provide a quality product and service for success.
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