For the past few years, there has been a push in manufacturing to focus on quality control. This is a good business move, as selling quality products is something that pleases customers and can increase profitability.
According to Assembly Magazine’s “State of the Profession” Report, manufacturers have embarked on a “quality crusade”. Manufacturers are increasingly focused on quality as a way to gain a competitive advantage. Producing a quality product is what creates customer loyalty and generates repeat business which increases profits and sales.
The report states that:
In the wake of massive recalls in the auto industry, many assemblers are focusing extra attention on quality. Indeed, more than one-half (53 percent) of State of the Profession respondents are currently dealing with issues relating to quality. That’s 4 percentage points higher than in 2013.
In addition, two-thirds (66 percent) of respondents claim that product quality is the No. 1 factor that will contribute to their companies’ competitive advantage during the next 12 months. That’s 5 percentage points higher than in 2012. And, it’s the first time in the 19-year history of the study that quality ranks above other factors, such as continuous improvement and manufacturing flexibility.
It’s not just the auto industry that is seeing this shift:
More than two-thirds (73 percent) of assemblers in the contract manufacturing industry are involved with quality initiatives, followed by transportation equipment (69 percent), electrical equipment and appliances (68 percent) and fabricated metal products (68 percent).
If your manufacturing facility is looking to join the “quality crusade”, here are some tips:
Invest in Updated Equipment
The key word here is “invest”. Instead of focusing on up front costs, look at the return on investment when upgrading equipment in the plant. Specific investments should be made in test and inspection equipment, automation equipment, and IT.
Reshore
Manufacturers are moving production back to the U.S., recognizing that low-cost work often translates to low-quality production. Assembly Magazine states that, “11 percent of respondents claim that their company has brought jobs back to the states from overseas during the past year. And, 14 percent expect their companies to reshore assembly operations during the next 12 months.”
Preventative Maintenance Should Be a Priority
When machinery isn’t properly maintained over its lifetime, its production quality suffers. Routine adjustments and component replacements must be made in order for the equipment to function efficiently.
Provide Ongoing Training
Hiring competent workers is a crucial quality control measure, however ongoing training is what keeps your workers, and your company, in a position to succeed.
Utilize Modern Technology and Big Data
The longer a manufacturing facility avoids big data and the connected factory, the faster that facility will fall behind.
Manufacturers should focus on creating great products and increasing quality control. Please contact Fishman Corporation for more information.