REMOTE production management refers to procedures Hong Kong-based companies use to run their factories in China, with particular emphasis on the exchange of information.
Many consultants, including the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) and Integrated Solutions Ltd, specialise in this area of management.
Computer packages are a main element in strategies recommended to clients, but consultants stress that their work focuses on all aspects.
Cost cutting and allocation of responsibility are at the centre of HKPC's remote management strategy.
Raymond Tsang, senior consultant of the automation services division, HKPC design and automation branch, said: ''Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are facing fierce competition. They are usually not good at design, so lower prices, prompt delivery and better quality are the keys to developing and keeping the competitive edge.'' Quality, cost and delivery are, therefore, the objectives of HKPC's consulting scheme, which has been operating for about two years.
''In particular, if companies want to follow a low-cost strategy, they need to eliminate waste in the manufacturing environment,'' Mr Tsang said.
