When people think of the metalworking process, they often imagine advanced computer-assisted design (CAD) drawings, metal being shaped into components, and completed industrial products rolling off the assembly line.
However, feasibility studies are a critical step in bringing metal products to market. They confirm our ability to execute work safely, cost-effectively, and in compliance with quality programs. These reviews also help us identify if changes to operations or investments in tooling, manpower, or technology are needed.
At Arrow Engineered Products, every project undergoes a feasibility review before we quote. This ensures we uphold our standards in quality, efficiency, and client satisfaction—reinforcing our reputation as a trusted industry leader.
The Importance Of Feasibility Reviews In The Contract Quoting Process
We conduct feasibility reviews as part of our quality program for all incoming projects to ensure robust quality control and minimize risk. These reviews are a critical first step in assessing manufacturability and ensuring that every aspect of the project has been carefully considered before production begins.
Each review includes a cross-functional team of subject matter experts from Operations, Quality, and Business Development. This collaborative approach ensures that all technical, regulatory, and commercial factors are addressed, and that our plans are both practical and aligned with client expectations.
These reviews not only help us identify and mitigate risks early in the process—they also provide valuable data to support strategic decisions related to manufacturing methods, capital investment, and resource planning. They ensure our team is fully informed on every project detail before fabrication begins.
This critical step also supports seamless collaboration between internal teams and our clients, resulting in high-quality outcomes and successful project execution.
Critical Questions Answered By Our Feasibility Review
- Do we have the appropriate skills, tools, technology, and capacity to complete the project to our high standards?
- Has our team ever manufactured a similar type of product in the past?
- Do we have all the client requirements (CR) and client-specific requirements (CSR) needed for the review, and are all the requirements understood?
- Can we meet the required material handling and storage needs, tolerances, packaging/shipping, finishing, and other requirements?
- Do we have the applicable quality programs at the production facility?
- Are all the functions needed to support the main process available?
- Can we calculate the actual cost of procuring new technology, manufacturing processes, software, added production space, tooling, skilled talent, and other project requirements?
What Does The Feasibility Review Bring To The Client?
One of the most critical benefits of our feasibility studies is that all potential manufacturability issues are addressed and solved early in the process to avoid costly redesigns and production challenges. This is critical to protect scheduling and keep the project moving forward efficiently within budget.
Our feasibility studies also deliver the following critical elements:
- Precise and competitive quotation documents that provide detailed insights into materials, labour, and time to deliver
- Contingency planning and risk mitigation that proactively address challenges
- Optimized resource allocation that streamlines production and improves efficiency
- Reliable, cost-effective suppliers selected based on cost, quality, reputation, and performance
- Realistic, achievable timelines aligned with the client’s expectations
- Quality assurance under all applicable regulatory bodies
- Supporting financial discipline to maintain budget control and prevent cost overruns
- Enhanced transparency through open collaboration and communication across stakeholders
- Validation summary that helps clients assess project feasibility and long-term value
Once completed, our feasibility studies will determine one of the below outcomes:
The project is feasible as specified with no revisions
The project is feasible, however changes are recommended in detail to improve the product’s manufacturability
The project is not feasible without design revisions that will support manufacturability within the specified requirements
Our team will work with you to address and solve any feasibility challenges so you can confidently move your project forward.
Read More: Demystifying Industry Standards And Certification In Metal Manufacturing
What Happens If A Manufacturer Doesn’t Conduct A Feasibility Review?
Skipping this essential step in the planning process can significantly impact both the project schedule and budget. Some of the potential risks of bypassing a feasibility review before quoting include:
- The rate of rejection during fabrication could be high, impacting the delivery schedule
- Manufacturing costs will rise above the original quote, due to issues such as manufacturability challenges, and change order requests
Benefits Of Feasibility Reviews: A Gateway To Growth
At Arrow, feasibility reviews aren’t just about risk—they’re a key driver of opportunity. By bringing together experts from Operations, Quality, and Business Development, we gain insights that help us:
- Identify opportunities for additional project scope
- Spot potential entry points into new industry sectors
- Make smarter decisions about where to invest resources
- Improve internal collaboration and innovation
- Build client trust that leads to long-term partnerships
These reviews help us plan better, execute smarter, and grow stronger as a business.
Arrow Engineered Products: Your Partner In High-Quality Products That Deliver Value
As a division of the Arrow Machine & Fabrication Group, Arrow Engineered Products’ roots in our industry go back to 1923. Since our inception, we’ve been a trusted partner to world-class brands that demand the highest quality, durability, and performance from their manufacturing suppliers.
Our integrated network also gives our clients unparalleled access to a comprehensive suite of world-class metalworking and assembly solutions. This global coverage helps ensure you receive significant cost savings and unparalleled scalability for virtually any metal OEM part, component, or equipment delivered to production facilities anywhere in the world.
When you need high-quality products that will help your company achieve sustainable long-term success and profitability, call Arrow Engineered Products first.
Arrow Engineered Products For Your Next OEM Metal Fabrication Project
Partner with Arrow Engineered Products for high-value design, engineering, and fabrication solutions to suit almost any application. Visit www.arrowmfgep.com/contact to experience the Arrow difference in quality, precision, and service for yourself today!