How to choose an automation partner
Custom automation is a long-term relationship, not a one-off purchase. The right partner turns a rough production goal into a machine that works on your floor and keeps working. Here is how to judge one.
What to look for
- In-house engineering — mechanical, electrical and software under one roof means fewer gaps and clearer accountability.
- Relevant experience — ask to see real machines they have built for problems like yours.
- A clear process — concept, design review, build, FAT, install, SAT, training — defined and documented (see IEC 62381 for acceptance testing).
- Local support — how quickly can they reach your line when it matters?
Questions worth asking
How do you handle changes mid-project? What happens if the machine misses its cycle-time target? Who owns the documentation and source code? How are safety and CE/── conformity handled? Good partners answer these clearly, because they have thought about them before.
Beyond the quote
The cheapest quote is rarely the cheapest project. Spare parts, uptime, support response and the ability to modify the machine later all shape the true cost of ownership. Choose the partner who will still be useful two years after installation.