購入か外注か（品証品管ニュース）

2025 . 10 . 10 品証・品管ニュース

In-House Investment vs. Contract Services

For facilities exploring these technologies, the decision often comes down to two options: investing in their own metrology systems or working with a specialized service provider.

In-house ownership offers convenience, particularly for teams that perform regular inspections or part validations. However, capital investment, ongoing training, software licensing, and equipment calibration are significant considerations. Advanced systems may also present a steep learning curve, particularly for teams with limited experience in high-precision measurement. Some vendors even offer a “try it before you buy it” option, giving teams a chance to evaluate the technology in real-world conditions before committing to a purchase.

Contracting a metrology service provider offers immediate access to specialized tools and highly trained technicians. This approach is often ideal for project-based work, complex inspections, shutdowns, or inspections of large or critical components. Providers bring deep cross-industry experience, ensuring proper data acquisition and alignment to engineering requirements.

What to Look for in a Metrology Partner

When outsourcing, selecting the right provider is about more than equipment. Look for partners who offer:

ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration and inspection processes
ISO 9001 certification – the foundation of quality
AS9100 certification – elevating aerospace standards
Experience in your specific industrial environment
A broad suite of metrology tools and software
Rapid mobilization capabilities during time-critical events
Proven outcomes in reverse engineering, CAD-to-part inspection, or alignment verification

The most effective providers don’t just deliver data — they enable informed decisions through accurate, environment-sensitive measurement.

A Strategic Enabler

Advanced metrology is no longer just a lab-based activity – it is a strategic enabler for modern heavy industry. Whether deployed in-house or accessed through qualified service providers, these tools are reshaping how industrial facilities maintain quality, optimize processes, and respond to complex engineering challenges.

For sectors like shipbuilding, power generation, pulp and paper, aerospace, oil and gas and other heavy industry, the question is no longer whether advanced metrology is feasible—but how best to integrate it into ongoing operations for maximum impact.

購入か外注か

このような技術の導入を検討している施設にとって、最終的な選択肢は概ね2つに絞られる。自社で計測システムを購入するか、外部の専門会社へ委託するかだ。

自社所有は、特に検査や部品の検証を定期的に行う企業の場合に利便性が高い。ただし、検討すべき事項として、設備投資、継続的な訓練、ソフトウェアライセンス、機器の校正などがある。また、高度なシステムは、特に高精度計測の経験が乏しいチームにとっては、習得に時間がかかる可能性がある点にも注意が必要だ。ベンダーによっては「購入前の試用」も可能で、購入を決める前に顧客が実際の環境でシステムを評価する機会を提供している。

一方、計測サービス受託会社と契約すれば、専門的な機器と高度な訓練を受けた技術者を即時に獲得できる。この方法は一般に、プロジェクト単位の作業、複雑な検査、操業停止中の検査、大型部品や重要部品の検査に適している。外注業者はさまざまな業界での豊富な経験に基づき、適切なデータを確実に取得し、工学的要件にも対応してくれる。

計測サービス業者の要件

外注する場合、適切な業者の選定は、機器の選定以上に重要だ。以下のような条件に合う業者を検討すべきだ。