Manufacturing Cost Reduction through Design Optimization: Beginning
Manufacturing cost reduction through design optimization involves several key steps to begin with. Of course, each one creates different challenges to be faced.
Subcontracting some of the manufacturing process out is an alternative that is worth considering. Specialized parts for a product can be difficult to produce, as well as buy specialized equipment to produce specialized parts. This is not a new idea by any stretch of the imagination, but when attempting to achieve a manufacturing cost reduction through design optimization, it is important to consider the quality of the output by an outsourcing company. If the company can be trusted and they can meet the schedule, then this is most likely is a good match. Nevertheless, co-ordination, shipping and a clear quality assurance program should be the first steps before any contracts are signed and dealt with throughout the duration of the job. Over production by the other party is a common concern and can lead to storage and material handling issues. If this were to occur while production is underway it could lead to your manufacturing timetable being thrown into chaos. These relationships are fraught with danger and involve a deep trust, and maybe a few penalties for missing deadlines.
Designing for manufacturing (or DFM) is also a method that is frequently used to reach a manufacturing cost reduction through design optimization. Rather than designing a product and tailoring the production process and machinery to better accommodate the product, designing for manufacturing works in the opposite manner. When using DFM practices, the manufacturer will take into account their current machine set-up and design the product in a such a way that it can be easily manufactured. This will improve productivity and increase the profit margin by reducing overheads that would most likely be spent on retooling the entire work floor. The results of designing for manufacturing include an improved from drawing board to market time, optimized manufacturing technique and savings on research and development.
Marketers too can play an important role in bringing about manufacturing cost reduction through design optimization. With innovative new techniques in material production and shipping being a constant source of overhead, a good vender will have suggestions on all possible cost cutters. While the manufacturer understands their process better than any vendor, the vendor will surely have a better grasp on materials than many manufacturers. Even if they is unable to provide any immediate suggestions straight off, they might at some point in the near future.
Getting to grips with the needs of every department is a major way to cut cost and optimize productivity as well as quality. No one knows the needs of a department better than the people who work there every day. Listening to their advice on how costs can be cut without sacrificing quality can be an excellent idea. Some businesses now provide a bonus to employees that are able to answer the million-dollar question; how can we cut costs and stay efficient?
The intention of manufacturing cost reduction through design optimization is to make money by reducing the overhead. Keeping the manufacturing process simple, reducing the costs of materials and making the manufacturing process more economical are the best ways to achieve this objective. Manufacturing cost reduction through design optimization would benefit any company. However, it is only justifiable if the quality of the product remains the same as previously thought or is better. A reduction in product quality often turns out to be more expensive than the original material was.
Marc Anderes is a co-founder of Maloya Laser which specializes in Metal Manufacturing and <A href=”http://www.MaloyaLaser.com”>Laser Cutting</a> with state-of-the-art <A href=”http://www.maloyalaser.com/capabilities_equipment.php”>laser technologies</a>, for medical, aerospace, scientific and transportation needs.
