How it Operates

The ABDN is a ‘subscription based’ service for suppliers.  Typically buyers can bring their problems / requirements to the ABDN and we will sit down with you and suggest the best solution.  Suppliers in turn, bring their capability and capacity to the network. The ABDN support group will add-value by bringing expertise, to ensure that the solution provided is totally satisfactory to all parties.  This can include a value engineering approach to improve functionality or reduce cost or both, together with other apprpropraite lean tools.

Since its inception, a number of buyers have recognised the value in seeking support from the ABDN and are actively supporting the group.  The number of suppliers has now grown to include many of the best in the West Midlands .

Third party collaborations have been formed to add-value to the service provided, if appropriate.

In the case of  the supply of a component, the objective is to help the supplier to respond quickly and effectively to the buyers’ needs and then for the supplier to provide highly cost effective, quality products, delivered on time, with some input from the network if required.

The ABDN has a number of suppliers who are capable of manufacturing assemblies and more complex products.

In certain circumstances, where there is a requirement for a number of companies to collaborate, a group is formed, with the necessary capability and capacity to manufacture the product.  In each case, a lead manufacturer is established, who has the responsibility to manage the project from a commercial and logistical point of view.

Each project can be managed through OPMcreator, a web-based project management system providing visibility to customers and suppliers at all times.

New products are tackled in a similar manner, through the formation of a “virtual” company, managed by a lead manufacturer, utilizing the web-based project management software to control the project.