Marcus Paint is always looking for ways to improve, both internally and in the field when working with clients.
As an example, we had a very complicated project to complete where the potential client did not have a written specification. This caused some confusion and misunderstanding when developing a custom product for the client’s application needs and field performance requirements.
The client often just knows they need the product to work. What does work mean? Hmm, that’s a good question.
We found, in order to prevent any misunderstandings and to ensure success we needed to build a customer product specification not only for the client’s use but for our internal development needs as well.
We began building “Internal Customer/Product Specifications” that clearly state the test parameter and expected results that apply to the particular client needs. What ASTM test do we use? What ASTM rating criteria and pass/fail values do we use?
We found that often we’re faced with the reality that we can’t reproduce exactly what the client does on their production line. The tests are straight forward to facilitate and we’ve invested in the equipment necessary to conduct most tests. But, getting the product on a substrate in the fashion the client uses is sometimes a real challenge.
This is where the Internal Specification plays a part in the consistency and success of the project. The methods of application, cure and other meaningful parameters are carefully documented and tested to ensure consistency. They are then made a part of the Spec so as to be repeated in the exact same way every time that particular test is performed.
In addition to creating the value internally, we also create formal specifications for our clients when needed.
Some of our clients don’t have formal coating specifications. This is where we can offer support and provide a specification that we have worked on together and sign off on.
This has helped not only our certification process but the customer’s in-house quality inspection. The client can also use the spec to certify the coating on their product is consistent and meets the performance needs of their client.
In summary by developing a specification where one has not been considered affords us the opportunity to certify every batch that goes out the door to agreed upon needs.
That’s the Marcus Way! We’ve got you covered!