Optimizing Operations In Multiproduct Pharma Manufacturing Facilities

By Tim Roach, Senior Director of Plant Engineering, Societal™ CDMO

Fixed, single-product pharmaceutical factories are becoming a thing of the past. To survive, today’s drug manufacturers must be agile and willing to adapt to wide-ranging and fast-changing requirements. Flexible, highly efficient manufacturing plants are in demand, as a result of many factors — including the need for frequent changeover between small batches targeting rare diseases, short timelines and expedited programs, and a wide array of increasingly complex therapies. Some of these are highly potent, involve market uncertainty, or need to be scaled.

However, operations in these modern, multiproduct facilities are complex and must be carefully laid out and orchestrated for optimal results. This article outlines some of the key features that pharmaceutical companies should look for in the facilities of prospective manufacturing partners.