OEM OUTSOURCING TO EMS COMPANIES BUILDING SUCCESSFUL RELATIONSHIPS

摘要

As the pace of electronic assembly outsourcing accelerates, it is increasingly important for OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and their selected EMS (Electronics Manufacturing Services) providers to establish clear communication. Once the outsourcing relationship begins, EMS providers that execute the product transfer process efficiently, while maintaining the flexibility to support OEM demands in changing markets, will provide OEMs with the best results. The cycle of product transfer is the most vulnerable step in the outsourcing process and needs close administration by both the OEM and EMS. A successful partnership emerges when both participants understand each other's expectations and requirements. During the initiation of the partnership, contrasts in the OEM's and EMS's practices and procedures will surface. In the case of product transfer from a manufacturing OEM to a EMS, these differences can effect the efficiency of the entire outsourcing process. EMS providers with sophisticated, adaptable technology are best equipped to facilitate a successful product transfer process. They can access real time data to provide customers, suppliers and employees with a consistent information environment. These systems also can create a strategic sourcing system that leads to competitive materials pricing and improved cost management. This paper will examine the transfer of assemblies between a manufacturing OEM and an EMS. It will cover subject matter ranging from the initiation of the transfer, quoting and material sourcing and pilot build, through full-scale production. The data transfer process will be addressed as a key part of successful product transfer. Data transfer aspects relating to engineering and administrative elements will be examined. These will include quoting, deviations and formal change management, component vendor administration (Approved Vendor List / Approved Manufacturer List), communication of demand forecasts, and the manufacturing process. Other topics that will be examined under the scope of product transfer include: 1. Reduction of risk for both OEM and EMS; 2. Condensed time-to-market ramp; 3. Increases in transfer rate and volume; 4. Communication tools.