Off-the-shelf equipment or a customized machine?
What does your manufacturing process or product need to take the next step? A standard machine or engineering and customization? We make a comparison between the two opposites. And even though we at VINTIV are prototype builders: no, a custom machine is not always the most logical choice.
1. Engineering, design and assembly lead time
Off-the-shelf
With standard machines, there is no need for further engineering. The design is 100% ready and proven. All parameters for construction are known in advance. This usually makes the lead time from order to delivery short.
Custom
We engineer and build everything from scratch. So not all the parameters are known in advance: so the lead time is longer. Yet we try to keep it as short as possible. On the one hand through our knowledge of the process itself, and on the other hand by keeping all necessary expertise in-house.
2. Price
Off-the-shelf
The biggest argument pro serial machines. Off-the-shelf typically scores better in terms of cost efficiency. Therefore, always check first whether there is a standard solution on the market for your challenge.
Custom
More expensive. But the investment pays for itself through higher quality products and a reduced need for revisions and updates. The initial additional cost is greatly reduced when you count in the entire TCO.
3. Risk
Off-the-shelf
Low. The machines have already been validated and the outcome is known. In other words, you can perfectly estimate the outcome of your investment in advance.
Custom
Higher. Every machine we build is unique and therefore not yet validated. We try to minimize that risk by testing certain uncertainties through a proof of concept. And by securing everything: clear specifications linked to commercial objectives.
4. Competitive advantage
Off-the-shelf
Low. With an off-the-shelf machine, your competitors have access to just the same solutions. Thus, your investment does not create a direct competitive advantage or unique market position.
So you will have to derive your competitive advantage from internal efficiencies, location advantages, any discounts obtained….
OTS providers usually do not foresee an opportunity to make minor adjustments or improvements. The consequence? That you have to accept any disadvantages of the machine. And have to weigh those well against the great benefit in cost and time.
Custom
The biggest argument pro customization. You get a unique production device completely designed and built according to your requirements. The output is logically of very high quality.
Net your product and process knowledge give you a unique position in your market. With a machine tailored to your needs, you take an edge over competitors working with standard machines. You secure your intellectual property in your company and thus strengthen your position.
As the developer, we offer the complete technical construction file of the machine. This is virtually unique in our market. So you can be 100% sure that your machine is really yours.