Benchmarking and
Research
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COOPERATIVE BENCHMARKING STUDIES |
Using a proven methodology, companies participate in a cooperative exchange of detailed
benchmarking information. Companies agree to share key information such as:
• Unit cost: material, burden and labor.
• Product differentiators and cost drivers.
• Facility, tooling and equipment investment.
• Staffing levels.
• Manufacturing processes: strengths and weaknesses.
In addition, Harbour visits each participant's operation involved in a study. This
allows representatives from each company to review their competitor's operations
and observe relevant manufacturing processes in relation to the information exchanged.
Harbour Consulting controls the exchange of data and analyzes the information for
consistency and completeness.
Participants in past studies have included companies headquartered in the United
States, Europe and Asia. Examples of completed cooperative benchmarking studies
conducted by Harbour include:
• Stamping die construction and engineering study.
• Engines studies: 4-, 6- and 8-cylinder.
• Manual transmission study.
• Manufacturing facilities management.
• Manufacturing staffing support requirements.
Harbour Consulting ensures the integrity and comparability of the data. The Harbour
benchmarking process delivers comprehensive and valuable data to participants that
is not available from any other source.
Each participating company gains a broader understanding of the area studied, a
clear picture of how it compares with the competition and a greater knowledge of
specific areas in which they can improve to become a world class manufacturer.
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| COMPETITIVE RESEARCH |
Harbour Consulting has a unique capability to deliver comprehensive competitive research. Our execution provides a distinct advantage by leveraging our expertise in lean manufacturing, product engineering and operations management. Some of the benefits of this analysis include:
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Comprehensive baseline of data information.
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Unbiased view of industry.
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Analysis of the greatest benefit to the client.
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Implementable recommendations.
We assist our clients in highlighting areas of competitiveness and opportunity. Examples of recent competitive research projects include:
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Unit cost and investment analysis.
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Product teardown and analysis.
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Product and process integration strategies.
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Product sourcing strategies.
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"State of the Industry" analysis.
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Performance measurement benchmarking.
With our extensive manufacturing knowledge, industry knowledge and historical information, Harbour is able to provide insight into future industry trends and recommend actions aligned with a client's goals and core competencies. As a result, clients gain knowledge critical to strategic business planning and future growth. |
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