What to Look for in a Manufacturing Business Consultant

Challenges abound for today’s manufacturers. From the pressure to reduce operating costs and streamline processes to increase efficiency, to staying ahead of the advancement in digital technologies it seems that there’s always some problem standing in the way of achieving your company’s goals. How do you stay ahead of the curve and solve your business challenges?

That’s where manufacturing consulting firms come in. To overcome these challenges, many manufacturing companies turn to outside manufacturing consultants for expert advice and guidance. But selecting the right manufacturing business consultant isn’t always straightforward. There are some key skills to look for in your search for expert manufacturing consultants. In this post, we’ll outline what you should look for when hiring manufacturing business consultants.

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Manufacturing Business Consulting: What to Consider

1. Relevant Industry Experience

You’re turning to a consulting firm to help with your manufacturing operations. While general business best practices may apply, the manufacturing sector is broad and diverse, encompassing everything from food to electronics. Someone with experience in your industry has a better understanding of the challenges you face, along with industry-specific best practices.

When evaluating potential consultants, look for those who have worked with businesses similar to yours in terms of size, scope, and product type. A consultant with direct experience in your specific manufacturing niche will be better equipped to develop tailored strategies that work for your company.

Key Points:

Has the consultant worked with companies in your sector?
Do they understand your company’s specific challenges and goals?
Do they have a proven track record of success within the industry?

2. Expertise in Process Optimization and Efficiency

Industry 4.0 has brought opportunities for improved data visibility, enhanced productivity through automation and even accelerated time to market. But technology alone can’t fix bad processes. True digital transformation needs to start with business process improvement.

Business process improvement (BPI) is a pivotal step in aligning your new technology with your company’s goals. Experienced consulting firms can analyze your current state, identify areas of inefficiency, waste or under-performance. A consultant who specializes in manufacturing process improvement will be able to assess your current operations and identify areas for cost reduction, better resource utilization, and more efficient workflows. Those areas can then be addressed with digital capabilities through new technology, or strategies you implement.

An experienced manufacturing business consultant should have a solid understanding of lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, and other process optimization methodologies. They should also be able to implement strategies that align with your company’s long-term goals while ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations.

Key Points:

Does the consultant have a background in process improvement methodologies?
Can they demonstrate experience with cost reduction, lean manufacturing, or productivity improvements?
Do they offer actionable solutions that can be implemented quickly and efficiently?

3. Strong Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills

Manufacturing challenges are often multi-faceted involving supply chain disruptions, equipment and technology challenges, labor issues, regulation compliance, and inventory management. These issues require a deep understanding of the industry and an ability to use data to uncover the causes and solutions to your unique challenges. Top manufacturing consulting firms have experience with collecting and interpreting data, identifying trends, and using these insights to guide decision-making.

Key Points:

Does the consultant employ a data-driven approach to problem-solving?
Are they able to analyze existing data to uncover inefficiencies and root causes?
Do they present practical solutions that make sense for your business context?

4. Knowledge of Technology and Automation

Manufacturing companies need to adapt to maintain their competitive advantage. Investing in new technology is one way to do that. But it’s not about the latest bells and whistles; it’s about selecting the right technology that drives your business forward.

Consultants who are well-versed in new technologies and automation strategies can help your company adopt the latest tools and systems to increase productivity, improve quality, and reduce costs. Look for a consultant who has experience with integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT) into manufacturing processes.

They should be able to assess the technology used in your company’s current operations and recommend solutions that will optimize processes and provide a competitive edge. For example, when selecting a manufacturing ERP system, the right consultant can direct the selection process by analyzing your current state processes and aligning system requirements to address any gaps.

Key Points:

Is the consultant familiar with modern manufacturing technologies such as robotics and IoT?
Can they guide the adoption of new systems and technologies to improve your operations?
Do they understand the role of automation in enhancing production efficiency?

“Manufacturers are finding more use cases and business benefits for increasing their use of digital technology, and the pace of adoption is accelerating.”

David R. Brousell | MLC Co-Founder and Vice President and Executive Director

5. Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Communication is key to implementing changes in your business. A manufacturing business consultant should be able to clearly communicate complex concepts and solutions in a way that’s easy for your team to understand. They also need to be able to engage with all levels of your staff, from front-line employees to upper management.

Key Points:

Can the consultant explain complex concepts clearly to your team?
Do they have experience working with both employees and management teams?
Are they skilled in managing relationships with vendors, suppliers, and other stakeholders?

6. Proven Track Record of Success

Before hiring a manufacturing business consultant, take the time to review references. An experienced firm should be able to demonstrate a history of successful projects tackling challenges similar to yours. Whether it’s improving supply chain management, reducing waste, or implementing automation systems, a consultant should be able to provide concrete evidence of their success in the field.

Key Points:

Can the consultant provide evidence of past success in projects similar to yours?
Do they have case studies or references from businesses that have benefited from their services?
Are they willing to share specific examples of how they delivered results?

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7. Ability to Customize Solutions for Your Business

Business transformation shouldn’t be approached with a one-size-fits-all solution. A good consultant will work closely with your team to understand your operations and create customized solutions that are in line with your strategy.

Key Points:

Does the consultant take the time to understand your company’s specific needs and challenges?
Are they willing to adapt their approach to your unique situation?
Do they offer customized solutions rather than a generic, off-the-shelf approach?

8. Strong Project Management Skills

Consulting projects for the manufacturing industry can often involve multiple teams, stakeholders, and phases. A consultant with strong project management skills will be able to address complex problems while keeping the project on track, ensuring that deadlines are met and that your project stays within budget.

Look for a consultant who has experience managing large-scale projects. They should be able to break down complex tasks into manageable milestones, track progress, and adjust strategies as needed to keep the project moving forward.

Key Points:

Does the consultant have experience managing large-scale projects with multiple stakeholders?
Are they organized and able to keep projects on schedule and within budget?
Do they provide clear timelines and progress updates throughout the project?

Conclusion: Finding Manufacturing Business Consulting Services

Choosing the right manufacturing business consultants can be a game-changer for your company. By focusing on these key attributes – industry experience, expertise in process optimization, problem-solving skills, technological knowledge, communication abilities, proven success, customization and project management skills – you can select a consultant who will help you overcome challenges, increase efficiency, and drive growth.

It’s important to take your time during the selection process to ensure that the consultant you choose is the right fit. By investing in the right expertise, you can unlock new opportunities for success.

Ultra Consultants has decades of experience helping companies in the manufacturing industry streamline workflows, optimize processes, implement game-changing technology, prepare for change, and position their business for the next stage of their growth. To see what Ultra’s expert manufacturing consultants can do for your company, schedule your free no-obligation discovery call today.

Learn more about Ultra’s consulting services:

Process improvement

Enterprise technology selection

Contract negotiation

Software implementation management

ERP implementation recovery

Organizational change management

Training solutions