Improvements in communication yield consistency in productivity
Client Challenge
A designer of high-end optical components and systems had partnered with an India-based engineering design firm that provided additional capacity for detail design. Although certain results were promising, management felt that the Indian firm performed at an inconsistent quality level. The CEO asked Amritt to help find and select alternate partners.
Amritt-Client Process
The client presented detailed descriptions of the technical requirements it expects from a partner. Utilizing this information, Amritt arranged and executed a sequence of meetings with potential Indian firms. Some of these meetings took place in the United States in conjunction with an international conference where the client was also able to join.
Amritt quickly determined that searching for a new offshore partner was unnecessary. We recommended focusing on better communication with the partner that the client had already found! Taking on an interim program management role, Amritt professionals provided hands-on demonstrations of the specific nuances of coordinating global engineering projects and programs. During this time, Amritt’s India professionals visited the Indian company regularly, often participating in international status calls from the supplier’s conference room. After four months of managing this hands-on role, Amritt provided the client with a custom-written “Global Engineering Bible” detailing how to effectively manage its offshore supplier. We also trained the supplier with specific examples of the benefits of pro-active and transparent communication.
Impact
Within three years, our client was acquired by a much larger company, and the India-based firm continues to work effectively for both the client and its new parent company.
