1. Find suppliers of automated controls that match your specific design needs.
2. Narrow the suppliers by who helps you with the automation controls design and installation process.
3. Finally, select automation systems suppliers who understand your needs and are easily accessible
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find automation control supplies that match your design criteria

Automated control systems require that they work together with the whole system. You may need a simple emergency stop or a remotely controlled IP addressable switch that gathers critical surveillance data.

I recommend: ThomasNet and GlobalSpec are two powerful engineering catalog search tools that allow you to target your specific needs by specification and geographic location. ThomasNet gives you the ability to compare suppliers side by side. Once you register, GlobalSpec gives an in depth description of the specialty of each supplier.

Find automation control system design help

Without proper implementation of automated controllers, you may be loosing time, money and possibly production. Streamlined processes require proper design and technology usage to make the most of your companies resources

I recommend: Electro Standards Laboratories and Polysius Corporation are two companies ready to help with design implementation. Electro Standards Laboratories has been in business since 1979 and specializes in the gaming industry, while Polysius Corporation has the automation equipment and design implementation to help your manufacturing process run better.

Select automation control suppliers with excellent customer service and accessibility

Your automation design team needs to not only be able to contact their suppliers with questions, but the suppliers need to take an interest in your company's success. This only happens when a automation control supplier is friendly, knowledgeable and service oriented.

I recommend: Although large, Siemens and Honeywell are two companies willing to put the needs of their customers first. This is probably why they became so successful. Siemens and Honeywell both give direct access to customer technical support and Honeywell provides a toll free number as well.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Don't be afraid to look for alternative automation control system suppliers. If you've been working with a supplier that does not meet your needs, contact an alternative. A different company gives a fresh look to your current system and may recommend changes that would make your line more efficient, safer or broader based.