Releasing a product on the market is a significant undertaking. From research and development to validation and market introduction, it requires a considerable investment of time and resources, especially when working with complex products such as medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
Having made this investment, it is great to see demand growing year-on-year. But whilst it might seem like the hard work is done, many companies get to this stage only to encounter a frustrating problem – their manufacturing process is struggling to keep pace with demand for the product.
In these cases, the right move at the right time can make all the difference. The manufacturing process can be optimised with the help of automation, to improve efficiency and throughput, decrease lead times, and ultimately provide better returns.
Optimising the Manufacturing Process
Today’s market is evolving daily – whether it’s new technologies, FDA regulations, or lifestyle trends, the truth is it’s easy to get left behind. But acting at the right time allows the manufacturing process to scale in response to growing demand, removing the bottleneck and unlocking the next stage of growth.
For those in this position, it can be difficult to know how to proceed. It may be the first time introducing automation, and trust is key.
Choosing the Right Automation Partner
The right automation company will take time to understand the unique priorities and requirements of the project, providing expert guidance and acting as a partner throughout the journey.
There are several factors that are vital in choosing the right automation partner. The main aspects to consider are Expertise, Resources, and Approach.
Expertise
Experience and expertise are non-negotiable when it comes to automating processes for medical device manufacturing.
PCE Automation has a proven record of providing automation solutions for a wide range of medical device manufacturers across the Life Science sector, such as for Ostomy and Continence Care, Advanced Wound Care, Ocular, and Drug Delivery Systems.
Manufacturing devices such as these is complex enough, so it is important to work with a company that can reduce this complexity, based on years of experience.
In order to truly reduce complexity, each step must be fully understood. PCE Automation has developed tried and tested business models, founded on granular detail, and built over years of mastering the craft.
Resources
Expertise is vital, but only when backed by the right resources. Smaller automation houses or R&D teams working on custom solutions face tight timelines, which can lead to potential areas of optimisation being overlooked.
PCE Automation has the infrastructure to handle fast-paced rollouts. Alongside this are dedicated teams focused on repeat equipment programmes. These engineers possess unique skills and are capable of reviewing design blueprints to optimise time to market and value-engineer the design to reduce long-term investment costs.
PCE’s operating procedures go one step further than standard build-to-print methods, removing all variability and dependence, to reduce risk and provide consistency.
Approach
Along with expertise and resources, the right approach is key.
Any company should deliver what is required, but a true partner will understand the aims and priorities behind the project, providing guidance to value-engineer the design and reduce investment costs. However, it is vital that this is done in the right way.
Whilst some companies may try to value-engineer the solution by reducing quality, this can have a negative impact on areas such as global standards, future maintenance, operator and engineer satisfaction, and machine aesthetics.
PCE Automation maintains the highest quality standards when value engineering, ensuring that solutions take into account long-term thinking, rather than just short-term wins.
Blueprints are reviewed thoughtfully, to provide solutions that decrease time to market and reduce long term costs, whilst maintaining quality standards to deliver long-term benefits.
To provide additional value, PCE focuses on optimising the following areas:
- Efficient Stock Management
- Streamlined Communication
- Optimising Lead Times & Costs
- Production Processes, Data Control & Review
- Obsolescence Management & Continuous Improvement
By focusing on key areas such as material selection, streamlined communication, lean production methods, continuous improvement, and efficient stock management, PCE helps businesses optimise their operations for long-term success.
PCE Automation offers a comprehensive approach to overcoming the challenges of scaling manufacturing processes in response to growing demand.
With dedicated teams, proven expertise, and commitment to collaboration, we are well-equipped to act as an extension of your organisation – enabling efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring your manufacturing processes are ready for future growth.
Get in touch to discuss your requirements.
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