Matthieu Bernard, eng.
Manufacturing project manager at Merkur
Matthieu graduated in mechanical and production engineering from the École Nationale d’Ingénieurs de Metz in 2010, and has been an OIQ full engineer since 2024. He has 15 years’ experience in project management in various manufacturing fields, including rail and heavy industry. His experience as a quality manager enables him to deal with various issues relating to standards and continuous improvement. As a technical referent, he has also held an international diploma in welding since 2014, giving him considerable expertise in this field. Whether as an industrial expert or as a project manager, Matthieu will be able to support you in your various issues and guide you in your projects.
When it comes to industrial projects, success doesn’t happen by chance, but through a structured approach. A feasibility study is a crucial step in the decision-making process before embarking on a major project, such as a plant expansion or the addition of a machine or robot, which represents a significant investment. In this interview, Matthieu Bernard, Merkur’s Director of Manufacturing Projects, explains the importance of carrying out a feasibility study upstream or at the very beginning of a project, and the pitfalls to avoid.
Why is it important, Matthieu, to carry out a feasibility study?
The feasibility study is used to verify the viability of a project before making a full commitment. This involves weighing up the pros and cons, analyzing technical and financial constraints, and translating ideas into concrete figures. By fully understanding the customers’ needs, the Merkur team can lay the foundations for your project and determine the steps required to bring it to fruition. This also enables us to anticipate risks and make informed decisions right from the start.
In your opinion, what are the risks of ignoring a feasibility study?
Failing to carry out a feasibility study before or at the very beginning of a project can lead to its failure, whether in technical, financial or human terms. Underestimating costs or neglecting certain constraints can lead to delays, or even project abandonment. The greatest risk remains the financial one, which can have disastrous consequences for the company.
''It's never too late to carry out a feasibility study, even if the project has already begun !'' - Matthieu Bernard, engineer and manufacturing project manager at Merkur
Matthieu, what's the winning recipe for a relevant feasibility study?
Here’s my recipe for a relevant and effective feasibility study:
- A thorough understanding of the customer’s project, needs and expectations,
- Identify and list existing and potential constraints,
- Take into account the customer’s short-, medium- and long-term vision,
- Carry out in-depth technical research and consult those involved in the project,
- Promote team cohesion and work in collaboration with the customer,
- Avoid the pitfalls and follow the points of vigilance listed above.
It’s essential not to take things for granted, and to avoid copying and pasting similar projects. In addition, it’s important to recognize that nobody has all the answers, and to seek expert advice when necessary!
Can you tell us about a concrete customer success story?
With our teams, we recently carried out a feasibility study that enabled a company to increase its production capacity without encountering any problems with the local authorities. Factory expansion can sometimes prove to be restrictive and complex in terms of environmental or municipal standards, for example, if these are not taken into account in the project, which can then find itself delayed or even cancelled. By calling on Merkur’s experts, this customer avoided many headaches!
In conclusion, a feasibility study is a worthwhile investment in the success of your industrial projects.
How do you support your customers in carrying out a feasibility study?
The Merkur team supports its customers throughout the entire process, from feasibility study to project completion. By working closely with the customer and appointing a dedicated contact person, Merkur creates a long-term relationship based on trust, thus promoting the success of their industrial projects.
With Merkur, you have a partner you can trust to bring your industrial project to fruition. Don’t leave your project to chance: contact us to schedule a feasibility study today to get started on the road to success.
