The FM Challenge
Free Vendor Analysis: Worth the Cost?
It is not unusual for someone proposing an FM or strategic outsourcing solution to offer to do a free analysis for the company, often called a "make vs. buy" analysis, which calculates the costs to manufacture internally versus the cost if someone else managed the in-plant or bought the work from more efficient printing "strategic partners." FM service providers may review the in-plant operations and report that its work is costing 10-30 percent too much. The provider may then suggest that it can cut those costs by a specific percentage and keep a portion of that as payment for their services.
Howie Fenton is an independent consultant who focuses on analyzing/benchmarking the performance of printing operations. Fenton helps companies use metrics, best practices and workflow strategies to streamline operations. Call (720) 872-6339 or email howie@howiefentonconsulting.com