Global resourcing-achieving success in metals industry automation projects through partnerships

A major shift in emphasis is occurring in the metals industry. There is a dramatic proliferation of cost-effective mini-mills. One of the keys to the success of mini-mills is their reliance on automation partnerships to bridge the technology hurdles. Partnering is the only practical methodology that OEMs and automation suppliers can consider if they desire to participate with these new-style producers. To be successful over the long term, the automation suppliers´ internal organisational structure must be extremely flat, with broad product offerings that are focused only on industrial control and automation. They must be able to react globally to customer needs in minimal time and provide accurate proposals first time. They must have partners who address control and information systems in every application in the metals industry and be able to provide the technology to support them. They must be able to drive decision-making to the lowest levels practical in the organisation. Finally, they must be committed to product quality, with total commitment to customer satisfaction, no matter where in the world they are doing business