Forging a relationship with your manufacturer is the key to long-term development in product manufacturing. Whether you are starting or have been around the block, understanding the manufacturing process overview and choosing the right manufacturer is crucial. This guide will walk you through ten critical things you must understand before working with a manufacturer to help you create trust, ease the production process, and scale efficiently.
10 Things to Know before Working with a Manufacturer
1. Try Building a Relationship with Your Manufacturer
Building a relationship with your manufacturer is not merely about business transactions; it is about forming a true partnership. Strong communication, mutual respect, and long-term collaboration create a productive and efficient working relationship.
Maker’s Row is a platform that connects businesses with manufacturers across the USA. It simplifies sourcing and production. Building a relationship with your manufacturer is easier with Maker’s Row , ensuring quality and efficiency.
Here’s how to do it:
- Go to their factory and have face-to-face meetings.
- Communicate back and forth over the phone or through emails and video calls.
- Be transparent about your expectations and requirements.
- Show appreciation for their expertise and input.
Example:
Companies like Nike and Apple maintain strong relationships with their manufacturers by working closely on innovation and quality control.
Want to know what Questions to Ask a Manufacturer or Building Supplier Relationships? Read this blog
2. Do Thorough Research Before Choosing a Manufacturer
Before anything else, the manufacturing process overview must be studied and worked through. Investigate their expertise, previous clients, certifications, and production capacity for the scale needed.
Key Factors to Consider:
| Factor | Importance |
| Experience | Ensures expertise in handling your product category |
| Certifications | Guarantees compliance with industry standards |
| Production Capacity | Determines ability to scale with your business |
| Quality Control | Maintains consistency and reduces defects |
3. Communicate Your Product Requirements Clearly
Manufacturers rely on clear specifications and accurate descriptions of materials. It is crucial that unclear specifications do not result in the late delivery of defective products.
Best Practices:
- Give CAD drawings and 3D prototypes.
- Use language that is simple and unmistakable to describe the product.
- Indicate materials, dimensions, colors, and surface treatment.
4. Set Realistic Timelines
Manufacturing takes time and might face unforeseeable delays. Have some foresight and set some realistic timelines, including buffer timelines.
Pro Tip:
- Have a conversation on expected lead times, including any possible delays.
- Make sure to confirm production before anything is pre-ordered or advertised.
5. Know the Costs Associated
Manufacturing costs go way beyond production. Knowing your unit economics gives you profitability and sustainability.
Breakdown of Costs:
| Cost Factor | Description |
| Raw Materials | Cost of acquiring materials for production |
| Labor | Factory workforce costs |
| Tooling | Molds, dyes, and machinery setup costs |
| Shipping | Transportation and customs fees |
| Quality Control | Inspection and testing expenses |
6. Be Open to Manufacturer Suggestions
Your manufacturer has invaluable years of experience and can offer possible inputs on good product design and production efficiency.
Example:
A furniture brand was to use solid wood, but it took the advice of the manufacturer to use engineered wood for durability and cost-efficiency.
7. Test Prototypes Before Mass Production
Never skip prototyping. A prototype helps identify flaws and make necessary adjustments before full-scale production.
Steps to Follow:
- Request multiple prototypes if the situation allows it.
- Subject your prototypes to stress tests and usability tests.
- Request feedback from potential users.
8. Plan for Scalability
If your business grows, can your manufacturer keep up with demand? Make sure they have the infrastructure to scale production when required.
Considerations:
- Do they have multiple production lines?
- Can they manage bulk orders efficiently?
- Are they flexible with lead times during peak seasons?
9. Establish a Clear Quality Control Process
Quality assurance is not negotiable. One defective batch can totally ruin the reputation of your brand.
Quality Assurance Measures:
- Establish quality standards and tolerances.
- Have pre-production, mid-production, and post-production inspections done.
- Request quality certification reports.
10. Maintain Transparency and Trust
An honest and aboveboard approach will help building a relationship with your manufacturer. Overpromising or withholding information can lead to trust issues and possible production setbacks.
Final Tips:
- Always be honest about your production capabilities and limitations.
- Build trust by sticking to payment terms and deadlines.
- Develop partner-type relationships as opposed to transactional-type ones.
Conclusion
Following these 10 steps builds a strong basis for building a relationship with your manufacturer. Such approaches not only streamline the manufacturing process overview but also help you in choosing the right manufacturer for your business needs. Strong manufacturer relationships make for strong products, easy production, and long-term development of the business.
