Quality Sourcing Solutions

Quality Sourcing Solutions

• Make sure your specification is clear to you
  In previous times, when manufacturing, engineering, and quality were in the same building (or at least on the same campus), it was commonplace to release product to manufacturing with incomplete specifications. While not exactly correct, it worked, because engineers and QC experts were standing by the production line. Obviously, if your manufacturer is in China, this is not going to happen. Getting some support from a China-based team like QSS can help, but ultimately, it will cost less and your quality will be better if you start with very clear specifications.
• Take the time to make sure your specification is clear to your manufacturing partner
  Seems obvious, right? I've personally tested welding hose that was marked with all appropriate industry-specified markings, but under test, didn't pass a single requirement. But the print had a note on it that specified "must comply with RMA IP-7." The print also specified that the hose must be marked. The marking part was clear, the specification compliance part clearly wasn't. It may be clear to engineers in the US, but not to the manufacturers in China. Take the time to go through prints and accompanying documentation. Make sure that all government and industry specifications are clearly spelled out. If necessary, take the time to translate the documents, using translators that have experience with technical product.
• Know your costs before negotiations begin
  If you're outsourcing an existing product, you likely have material, labor, and overhead numbers. Use these numbers to estimate a China-based cost, and don't get greedy. If you're working with smaller Chinese manufacturers, they may be tempted to agree to any cost, and then try internal cost reduction once production is underway. This will be disastrous! Agree to a cost that saves you money, but still allows the manufacturer to make money.
• Listen to your manufacturing partner
  Remember your first technical job? There was a cranky old machinist (engineer, mechanic) that you always went to with the hard problems. Not up on the latest technology, he offered practical insight. I've found my Chinese partners to be much the same. Due to the volumes that I usually deal with, I often find myself working with mid-sized and small vendors that don't have the latest technology. They still have an intuitive sense for how things work, and offer many practical ideas. Combine your ideas, and you'll arrive at the right solution.
• Inspect, audit, monitor, verify
  This is a pitch for Quality Sourcing Solutions. I want your business. But in reality, you work for a manufacturing company. Have you ever launched a product and not required follow up support from Engineering and Quality? Enough said!
• Have fun!
  You will find your Chinese partners to be not only technically skilled manufacturers, but also gracious hosts! As you know, dinners and social events are part of doing business in China. The staff of QSS doesn't usually get to enjoy these events. As inspectors and auditors, we have to maintain our objectivity. You should participate, and enjoy yourself. In fact, if you don't, you'll likely miss the most productive conversations.