Case Studies

Manufacturing & Engineering

Teed consultants recognise that a business continuity focus within manufacturing and engineering companies can sometimes prove contradictory when compared to the typical emphasis on “just in time” practices. However, when approached in an appropriate manner the two philosophies can complement each other.

The business continuity objective of most manufacturing and engineering clients that we work with is to ensure that, in the event of an unexpected disruption, customer deadlines can continue to be satisfied. The logistics, office and IT functions are all important aspects of this and solutions must be found to ensure that any disruption to these does not impact upon satisfying customer requirements. However, often the most challenging part of the business continuity project is the development of strategies that will allow effective recovery in the event of the loss of critical equipment or manufacturing capability.

The worst case scenario that is considered during typical business continuity projects is often the loss of any one premises and all of its contents. This is straightforward enough in an office environment but not so when it is a unique manufacturing facility. Therefore, the main focus would usually be upon considering lesser incidents that could disrupt production and controlling risks effectively to hopefully stop the worst from happening.

However well risks are managed there is always still a possibility that the worst could still happen and this must also be considered. Innovative thinking can often allow actions and contingencies to be identified that would allow recovery to be achieved, albeit there may be some residual risk that needs to be accepted or transferred. Complementing your business interruption insurance with effective business continuity plans should help to protect your customers and long term market share.