In this article, Electronics Sourcing asks Tioga how it would advise purchasing professionals looking to source a new contract electronics manufacturer.
Selecting a new electronics manufacturer can be a daunting task. The first question is what is required from the new supplier? Is help needed at the design stage? Does the project involve prototyping, pre- production or volume manufacture? Are complete PCB procurement and assembly services required? Once the requirements are understood the purchasing department can look for a supplier that offers the capabilities required.
Check accreditations. Depending on needs there may be specific accreditations that are advantageous or mandatory for the product such as AS/ EN9100 or ISO13485. Not all CEMs have the same accreditations.
Visit prospective CEMs. Visits not only offer an opportunity to understand potential capabilities and size, but they also let customers meet the CEM’s team and understand the company’s values and working cultures.
Evaluate Pricing: Cheapest is not always best. Does a quote include high quality standards, flexible manufacturing, additional support through the DFM stages, engineering advice?
There are many things to consider when selecting a new CEM. Overall advice is to find a supplier that fits the organisational and technical needs. Creating long term partnerships is key. Focusing on individual needs and delivering a first-class service is Tioga’s aim and for its customers to think of the company as an extension
of its own purchasing and manufacturing departments.