Contract manufacturing is a common practice in the manufacturing industry that involves outsourcing various stages of the manufacturing process. This can include tasks such as CNC machining, turning, production of plastic components, painting, special processes, welding, and more.
Often, projects are hurried to the production floor, leaving it up to shop managers, machine operators, or even company executives to oversee and ensure that cost, quality, and delivery deadlines are met.
To streamline this process, it is essential to work with a contract manufacturer that offers program management services. These services help simplify the entire transition by providing oversight and coordination throughout the project lifecycle.
Program managers (PMs) act as skilled intermediaries between the customer and the contract manufacturer. By utilizing project managers, companies can benefit from a smoother process and improved communication throughout the manufacturing lifecycle, amongst other benefits.
1. Designated Point of Contact Between Customer and Contract Manufacturers
Too many times, when engaging with a contract manufacturer, there is no designated point of contact for a customer to call when questions need answering. There might be a quality question or delivery schedule change, and the poor receptionist doesn’t know to whom to direct the call. A program manager is designated so that all questions and concerns can be directed to him/her. This eliminates confusion and errors, along with not having to send an email with CC to 12 people within the organization.
2. Program Managers Will Understand Your Product and Create a Plan for Success
A good PM understands that he/she is controlling a critical series of operations in your manufacturing process. As such a PM is trained to be an extension of your very own manufacturing sequence. The PM will work with the customer to understand exactly what they are trying to achieve. A plan can be put together that utilizes his/her personnel and machinery resources to optimize the process for the customer goals. Once the resources and plans are in place, the program manager and team will efficiently and effectively work in harmony to achieve the defined success.
3. Program Managers Become Customer Experts
Program managers not only understand their own capabilities but also understand the customer requirements. For many industries, products contained intricate specifications that must be followed to the letter. An experienced program manager will be able to interpret these specs and ensure they are followed throughout the manufacturing process. Furthermore, PMs will document and detail the processes to ensure repeatability and accuracy in the future.
