Buying guide
Packaging Automation: A Guide for Manufacturers
Map inputs, outputs, handoffs, quality checks, data requirements and interfaces.
Answer first
Map inputs, outputs, handoffs, quality checks, data requirements and interfaces.
Start with the actual application. Document the product or pack, throughput, material or substrate, data/content requirement, environment and existing line interfaces.
Questions to bring to a supplier
- What must the equipment print, seal, inspect, trace or automate?
- What production speed and operating window are required?
- What equipment exists before and after this process?
- What integration, support, spare parts or consumables will be needed?
The best supplier conversation is specific enough to turn a generic product category into a scoped requirement.