In choosing a product development partner, the question isn't just whether the partner can manage the project from start to finish, but also the expertise and quality with which the services are delivered. Additionally, a knowledgeable product development partner brings added value to the project with their expertise.
Start by evaluating the potential partner's competence as well as their product development services, and assess whether the partner can provide all the support you need. Do you need a partner who has experience in driving the entire product development process, or a partner who specializes in a specific aspect of design? Compare this with your own team's expertise.
Identify the specific expertise the potential partner offers. Industry or product-specific knowledge helps accelerate the product development process, reduce costs, and improve product quality. Look for a partner who can bring something new and valuable to the table, complementing your own team and expertise.
The experience and expertise of the partner's technical team are crucial factors. Check what evidence there is of the company's previous successful projects and evaluate how the partner would be suitable for your own project based on these. Also, request to see the designers' CVs.
>> Explore Mectalent's product development services
When searching for a product development partner, it is essential to find a partner who not only understands traditional product development methods but also offers innovative solutions. These innovations could be new materials, design methods, or technological applications. They can significantly enhance the product's performance, reduce manufacturing costs, or shorten the product development time.
Look for a partner who shows the ability to think outside the box and seize new technologies and implement them in practice. The ability to adopt and apply the latest techniques can be a crucial advantage over competitors. This requires continuous learning, which is an essential part of advanced product development.
>> Read about utilizing new technologies at Mectalent
The use of virtual modeling and simulations in product design helps guide and optimize the design process. Designers can use simulations to explore and develop product functions in a virtual real world. Simulations ensure the product's functionality and durability before building prototypes, accelerating the development process and reducing costs compared to traditional design methods.
>> Read the blog: Using simulations in design speeds up product development
Choose a product development partner who understands how different design solutions affect the product's manufacturability and assembly. The partner should have experience in various aspects of manufacturability, such as standard components and different materials and manufacturing methods.
When it comes to optimizing manufacturability, it's beneficial to involve the manufacturer in the design project from an early stage. At Mectalent, this is easily done as we offer design services as well as part and device manufacturing and subassemblies. Our clients can be sure that our design and manufacturing experts together find the best possible solutions!
>> Read the blog: Considering manufacturability in design saves time and money
Whether it's a physical device or software, at some point during its lifecycle, the product will likely need updates. The automation cell software needs to be updated, or the production of standard components used in the device is discontinued, and replacements must be found. Can your product development partner help?
At Mectalent, automation designers and mechanical designers are supported by a knowledgeable sourcing team. The team has good relationships with component suppliers, and many of our suppliers update the availability and delivery times of components specifically for us, which also helps the designers. Thanks to our procurement team's strong market and supplier knowledge, we can respond to changing situations and acquire the necessary components even at short notice.
Quality product development work usually rests on a certified quality management system, such as ISO 9001 or ISO 13485. Quality certificates indicate that the company operates responsibly and has invested in risk management, which reduces the likelihood of errors.
Products that require CE certification or other approvals must undergo appropriate conformity assessment procedures, which may include testing, evaluation, and documentation review before they can be marketed. If your product is, for example, consumer electronics, a medical device, or an RF device, ensure that your partner is familiar with the relevant approval requirements.
>> Explore Mectalent's quality policy
Security pertains to both the design process of the product and the use of the finished product. Typically, an NDA agreement is made before starting the project, and during the design process, the service provider must ensure that confidential information, documents, and prototypes, for example, are accessible only to designated individuals.
During the design process, it's important to consider the security of the device during its use. The Security by Design principle involves incorporating security features, such as encryption and authentication mechanisms, into the device or system during its development phase. This is especially crucial for devices connected to operational networks, such as industrial automation technology and control systems.
The expertise and networks of your product development partner can help find solutions and innovations that could revolutionize your product or service. Therefore, developing cooperation, building trust, and maintaining open communication are important factors in a successful partnership.
The right product development partner not only supports you in immediate challenges but also serves as an active advisor and support source throughout your cooperation. The partner's expertise can be invaluable, especially as markets change and technologies evolve.
Choosing a suitable partner for your needs brings expertise and contacts that add value to the entire product development process. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly explore potential partners before making a decision. The right product development partner will walk alongside your company through several projects and over many years.