The process of transforming an initial concept for a product into a functional prototype, and later bringing the product to a commercialized form that is ready to be sold to customers, is often referred to as moving a product from development to production. Achieving this is a complex process that involves various stages, and often requires the expertise of a professional engineer and/or production manager.
1. Sourcing + RFQ
Creating a product requires adequate sourcing of raw materials and components. This stage involves the selection of parts, materials, and components that adhere to the technical specifications, as well as the appropriate Request for Quotation (RFQ) process for the product. This process must also be accompanied by the design and development of the bill of materials (BOM) and the cost analysis for the custom parts and components that are required for the product.
2. Tooling, Sampling and Non-Production Release
When the sourcing process is complete, the design team needs to create the tools needed for production, which includes molds, dies, and fixtures. This stage also requires rigorous testing to ensure that the product meets the agreed upon specifications and quality control standards. Additionally, this is the stage where a small number of non-production samples may be requested from the factory for further testing.
3. Production Launch
Once the product is ready to enter production, a production launch plan should be created and implemented. This plan should include plans for the scheduling of parts and components, as well as the organization of resources to ensure that the production process is smooth and efficient. It is also important to note that during this stage, the quality control standards must be in place and enforced to ensure that the products produced meet the required levels of quality.
Conclusion
Moving a product from development to production is by no means an easy process. In order to ensure the success of the project, thorough planning, testing, and quality control must be adhered to throughout the entire process. By following the various stages described in this article, the successful launch of a product that meets the required standards can be achieved.