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Machine-as-a-Service: determining if the program make sense for your organization

Published on July 24, 2023

You know your operation would benefit from automation, so what’s preventing you from pulling the trigger on your automation project? Whether it’s a lack of CapEx funding, anticipated operational changes, or the fear of assuming the associated risk, Pearson has a program that helps overcome these or other hurdles you’re up against: Machine-as-a-Service (MaaS).

What is Machine-as-a-Service?

Under the Machine-as-a-Service program, Pearson ships and sets up case erecting, sealing, or palletizing equipment at your facility with no upfront cost. You can use the machinery for whatever duration of time you need, and you’ll pay a set rate per case (or per pallet) formed, closed, or stacked. There are no minimum term commitments, and the machines can be returned at any time.

Consider Machine-as-a-Service if:

You don’t have the CapEx funding for the equipment you need

Have uncertain market conditions caused your company to put a hold on executing planned automation projects, leaving you to figure out how to reach committed production volumes?

With Machine-as-a-Service, you don’t pay a penny upfront. No machinery investment – no commissioning expenses. Rather, you’ll pay a per-unit rate for each case (or pallet) covered by operational budgets. The result? You’ll see an immediate return that allows you to devote funds to other areas of your business.

You’re a co-packer

There’s risk in footing the bill for an expensive packaging solution designed for a particular customer. What if the contract ends earlier than anticipated?

If you are a contract manufacturer or packer, you can easily pass the per unit packing expenses directly to your customers, rather than having to dive deep into your wallet and invest in a long-term automation solution before production ever begins.

Your production schedule/output volumes fluctuate

Does your output ebb and flow based on seasonal influxes? Do you run smaller and larger batches of different products depending on demand? Or, are you rolling out a new product or packaging type that could be either tremendously successful or a total flop, and needing a non-committal solution?

Whatever the case, Machine-as-a-Service is virtually risk-free in that there are no minimum term commitments. You can use the equipment as much as needed, only pay for what you use, then return the machine if there comes a time when it’s no longer needed.

Your operation is in a transitional period

If you’re remodeling, expanding, or planning for a new facility, you may benefit from a temporary machine (or machines) to keep production going until your permanent equipment can be installed and your line is functioning as intended.

With so many variables impacting the completion of a large-scale project – things like multiple vendors and fluctuating schedules – Machine-as-a-Service is a good interim fit regardless of production volumes and project duration.

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Lack of automation is costing your company money each day. Why wait to automate? It’s easier than ever with Machine-as-a-Service.