Which factor is considered a disadvantage of bought-in components?

The correct answer highlights a significant challenge associated with using bought-in components, which is the dependency on supplier reliability. When a manufacturer sources components from external suppliers, their production schedule and overall operational efficiency can be heavily influenced by the reliability of those suppliers. If a supplier fails to deliver on time or provides substandard components, it can lead to delays in the manufacturing process, increased costs, or compromised product quality.

This factor is critical in decision-making for companies that rely on external suppliers, as disruptions in the supply chain can have a cascading effect on production timelines and customer satisfaction. Therefore, while there are advantages to using bought-in components, such as cost reduction and access to consistent quality, the risk associated with dependency on the supplier’s performance must be carefully managed to ensure seamless production operations.