"We've got two cells now, and a third will be on the way this year."
That's how one medical device manufacturer described their situation when evaluating Andon systems. Like many buyers, they weren't just thinking about today—they were planning for growth.
Choosing an Andon system isn't just about features. It's about finding a solution that fits your facility now and can grow with you. This guide walks you through the key evaluation criteria based on what real buyers consider when making this decision.
Key Features to Look For
Before comparing vendors, understand what capabilities matter for your operation:
Alert Types
Can the system handle different types of calls? Most manufacturing environments need to differentiate between:- Maintenance requests (equipment issues)
- Quality alerts (defects, inspections)
- Materials requests (parts shortages)
- Safety concerns (emergencies)
Escalation and Reminders
What happens when a call goes unanswered? As buyers consistently note, they need systems that automatically escalate: "If a call goes over a specific allotted time, it sends a reminder or escalation to a backup or supervisor."Ask vendors:
- Can you set timeout thresholds?
- Can different call types have different escalation rules?
- Can escalations go to different people or groups?
Response Time Tracking
Can the system measure how long it takes to respond? This data is essential for continuous improvement. Look for systems that track:- Time from alert to acknowledgment
- Time from acknowledgment to resolution
- Total call duration
Reporting and Data Export
What data can you pull out of the system? Ask about:- Report formats (Excel, CSV, PDF)
- Filtering options (by date, shift, call type, responder)
- Scheduled reports vs. on-demand
Wireless vs. Wired: What to Consider
One of the first decisions is whether to go wireless or wired.
Wireless Advantages
- Flexibility — Buttons can be moved without running cables
- Faster installation — No construction or electrician required
- Easier expansion — Adding stations doesn't require infrastructure changes
Wired Advantages
- No batteries — Devices are always powered
- No signal concerns — Direct connection means no interference
- Long-term reliability — Fewer components that can fail
Coverage Considerations
Wireless systems have range limitations. One manufacturer recalled their experience: "It still didn't transmit a good enough signal. We ended up having two repeaters to get it to work."
Questions to ask:
- What's the range from button to transmitter?
- What's the range from transmitter to pagers?
- What are the options when buttons or responders are out of range?
- Do you offer signal repeaters, and what do they cost?
Software and Reporting Capabilities
Most modern Andon systems include software for configuration, monitoring, and reporting. Here's what to evaluate:
Dashboard and Display Options
- Can you display status on a TV or monitor?
- Can you filter views by area or department?
- Is it real-time or does it require refreshing?
User Access Levels
One manufacturer asked about this specifically. The answer: "You can do it on the admin account only... regular users won't have credentials to make modifications."Consider:
- Who needs admin access to make changes?
- Who needs view-only access for monitoring?
- Can you create multiple users with different permissions?
Data Ownership
Where does your data live? This matters for:- Security (especially in regulated industries)
- Backup and recovery
- Access if you change vendors
Scalability: Planning for Growth
One of the most common buyer concerns: "If we want to expand, can we?"
The answer from most vendors: "If you wanted to expand at any point in time, you can do so." But the details matter.
Questions to Ask About Scalability
- What's the maximum number of buttons the system supports?
- What's the maximum number of pagers or responders?
- If we add more devices, what changes?
License Structures
Some systems have licenses tied to the number of devices. Others have unlimited licenses. Understand the model before you buy, especially if you're starting small with plans to grow.IT and Network Requirements
Every facility has different IT constraints. Understand these requirements before you get too far in the evaluation.
Network Connectivity
As one vendor explained: "You have to be on the same network as the main system hosting it."Questions for your IT team:
- Does the system require network connectivity to function?
- Can it work standalone (no network) if needed?
- Does it require internet access, or just local network?
- What ports or protocols does it use?
Local vs. Cloud
Some systems store data locally on your network. Others use cloud servers.An aerospace company raised this concern: "We needed proof of where data is stored." For industries with security requirements—aerospace, defense, medical devices—data location matters.
Ask:
- Where is data stored?
- If cloud-based, where are the servers located?
- Can the system work offline if internet goes down?
- Who has access to your data?
IT Approval
Many buyers note: "I'm probably going to need IT here to help me out." Plan for this. Common IT concerns include:- Software installation on company computers
- Network security and firewall rules
- Data storage and backup
- Remote access for vendor support
Support and Training
What happens after you buy?
Technical Support
As one vendor stated: "We offer a lifetime of customer and technical support and there's no additional charge for that."But not all vendors are the same. Ask:
- Is support included or an additional cost?
- What are the support hours?
- Is support phone, email, or remote access?
- What's the typical response time?
Self-Service Capabilities
Can you make changes yourself, or do you need vendor help?- Can you add/rename stations?
- Can you reassign responders?
- Can you modify escalation rules?
- Is there documentation or training available?
Remote Support
Many vendors offer remote support via screen-sharing tools. Understand:- What remote access tool do they use?
- Does your IT department allow it?
- Is remote support included in the base price?
Pricing Models: What to Ask
Pricing varies widely between vendors and systems. Here's what to clarify:
One-Time vs. Subscription
Some systems are one-time purchases: "There's no monthly or annual fees. It's just a one time charge."Others have subscription components: "The subscription allows you to send SMS and email notifications... $90 a month or $1,080 a year. But if you don't add it, there's no monthly fees to the base system."
What's Included?
Get a clear breakdown:- Hardware (buttons, pagers, transmitter)
- Software license
- Configuration and setup
- Training
- Support
What Costs Extra?
Common add-ons that may be additional:- SMS/email notifications
- Additional software features
- Signal repeaters for extended range
- Software upgrades
- On-site support
Questions to Ask Every Vendor
Based on what real buyers evaluate, here's a checklist of questions:
Coverage and Range
- What's the communication range between buttons and the central unit?
- What's the range for pagers/wearables to receive alerts?
- What happens if we have areas outside the standard range?
- Do you offer repeaters, and what do they cost?
Pricing and Costs
- Is this a one-time purchase or subscription?
- What's included in the base price?
- What features or services cost extra?
- What's the cost to expand if we add more stations?
Support and Service
- Is technical support included? For how long?
- Can we configure the system ourselves, or do we need your help?
- What documentation and training do you provide?
- Do you offer a trial or pilot program?
Technical Requirements
- What are the IT/network requirements?
- Where is data stored (local or cloud)?
- Can the system work offline?
- What's the typical implementation timeline?
Red Flags to Watch For
Based on common buyer concerns, here are warning signs:
Unclear Pricing
If a vendor can't give you a clear price breakdown, that's a concern. You should know exactly what you're paying for and what might cost extra later.No Trial or Demo
You're buying a system that will affect daily operations. If you can't see it work before committing, be cautious.Proprietary Lock-In
Can you export your data? What happens if you change vendors? If your data is trapped in a proprietary format, that's a risk.Vague Support Terms
"We'll support you" isn't good enough. Get specifics on hours, response times, and what's included.No References
Can the vendor provide references from similar facilities? If they can't connect you with current customers, ask why.Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose wireless or wired?
Wireless is more flexible and easier to install. Wired may be more reliable in environments with heavy interference. Consider your facility layout, expansion plans, and IT preferences.How much does an Andon system cost?
Costs vary widely based on the number of stations, pagers, software features, and vendor. Get quotes from multiple vendors and compare what's included.Do I need IT approval?
Probably. Most systems require software installation, network connectivity, or both. Involve your IT team early to avoid surprises.Can I try before I buy?
Many vendors offer trials or pilot programs. Ask about this upfront—it's the best way to validate that a system works in your environment.Ready to Explore Options?
Now that you know what to look for, you're ready to start evaluating vendors. Use this checklist to compare options and find the right fit for your operation.
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