Encouraging Innovation and Cost-Cutting Programs in a Developing Economy

Abstract

Successful companies continuously face the challenge of designing new products that are more durable, yet less expensive, than their predecessors. Truly, low-cost manufacturing requires that ease of manufacture, assembly, and service become part of the product's initial design specifications. Manufacturing engineers must have early and continuous involvement in the design process. Also, design and manufacturing engineers must respect each other's area of expertise. Finally, manufacturing input should not be a set of constraints, but part of a dialog that sets the stage for reaching agreed-upon goals. It is easier to cut costs when engineers work with production rather than against it. This paper discusses how breaking down barriers encourage innovation and cost-cutting in a manufacturing environment.