Engineering Resources for SMBs
Robert
S. Michaud, P.E.
June
9, 2020
Engineering is a mysterious word to the general population. Just ask
someone what they think an engineer does and you are likely to get a
response that varies from a blank stare to “someone who designs
stuff”. OK, so the latter is true – sometimes. The truth is,
engineering is a wide and varied field that includes a number of
areas of expertise. These include things like design, as noted
before, but also, maintenance, reliability, product development,
manufacturing, research and inspections. In addition, the term
engineering describes a wide range of education disciplines that
includes (but is not limited to) mechanical, civil, electrical, and
chemical engineering, and sub-disciplines such as computer,
aeronautical, process engineering and many more.
Large manufacturing firms often employ many engineers in a variety of
disciplines as dictated by their manufacturing needs. However, small
more mid-sized businesses (SMB) may not have the resources or need
for a staff of engineers, but may still need engineering support on a
periodic or project by project basis. This is where a partnership
with a suitably experienced firm can help propel your business
forward. Finding and teaming up with an engineering firm to meet
your specific needs, when you need them, can help you develop new
products, enter new markets and solve more challenges without having
to hire additional staff (until you grow to a sufficient level where
that makes sense, of course). Another benefit to partnering with an
engineering firm is that through their experience and contacts, they
may know of other allied manufacturing firms, products, or tools that
may benefit your business further. The concept of ‘networking’
isn’t specific to just the business development people – it can
be real asset in helping to solve problems, find unique solutions and
improve profitability.
So how do you find the right engineering firm to deal with? The same
tools of networking apply here as well. Word of mouth from resources
you trust is a good start. Beyond that, trade resources like
Thomasnet.com or trade organizations that you may also be a member of
such as ASHRAE, IFMA, AFE and others may be able to help.
Professional associations such as NSPE, ASME, ASChE, ASCE are also
good resources. Lastly, looking in your local community and making
some phone calls sounds pretty old school, but still works. Start
with an introductory meeting similar to a job interview and see if
there might be a good fit.
© Michaud Engineering Inc. 2020
