Key to integration is the experience of the supplier, the capability of the supplier’s staff for quality work, and the willingness of the supplier to stand behind challenges that may arise. There are trade offs in hiring a consultant versus charging the supplier of the most critical equipment (yes, it should typically be this supplier on the line) with your integration project.

Consultants that specialize in integration may have a wealth of expertise and experience to help you avoid pitfalls that others may not see. Everything from input and discharge heights, floor plan layout, logistics of material flow, and control are only a few of the issues to be covered. On the downside, it can seem costly to hire a consultant as its in addition to the cost of the equipment and facility modification. Also, the consultant will not have a mastery of any of the equipment on the line and will typically always rely on the suppliers to provide support.

The supplier of the most critical (often most expensive, too) piece of equipment will be naturally engaged in the success of the line and will typically have a broad general knowledge of the issues and challenges needing to be addressed. This is usually more cost effective than the consultant. But beware: many equipment suppliers will say they do integration. Be sure to ask for references for the size and relative scope of your project. Be sure on your end to have enough capable staff, time, and test product available to support the integration.