Whether you develop your own product formulas or get them from suppliers, there are many formulation items that need attention at the plant level. We will discuss how to develop “robust” formulas, that is, formulas that blend right the first time with minimal adjustments. We will also discuss how to set batch release specifications and how to implement quality monitoring for tests that cannot be run at batch release. Does your company have a system for the management of changes? All blend formulas and blending procedures must be documented, and all changes must go through a defined approval process. We will introduce the concept of “core components”, or complexity reduction, to simplify inventory of base oils and additives. Does your plant have a system to minimize slop oil? Using blend compatibility guidelines can be a big help in reducing waste as well as reducing finished product contamination.