Traditionally, this kind of partnering was limited by manufacturers' concerns about involving their products with products over which they have no control. However, the situation may change as owners call for better warranties. Often, a commissioning agent will develop a system warranty that brings together multiple suppliers. Some manufacturers offer performance-related assurance programs that establish one manufacturer as a consultant leading a team of suppliers put together to meet a specific end result. An assurance is sometimes sold as a value-added service.
Some manufacturers build the costs into the price of the product.
However, if accompanied by close project scrutiny, the service can reduce field liability issues. The Issue of Standards Another important consideration for manufacturers when it comes to the warranty process is that using ISO standards can reduce liability. ISO standards assure that consistency has occurred in manufacturing a product because a certified documentation process has been followed. There is considerable upfront cost to using such standards, but the end result is reduced liability if proper installation procedures also are followed. Another direction the manufacturing industry is exploring is companies that manufacture, engineer, install, coordinate with related suppliers and subcontractors, then put a system warranty on their products.