FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Planning a Development Project
Detailed questions make the scope easier to evaluate and the quotation more useful.
How do I know whether to start with a standard model or a new design?
Start with an existing series when its structure and core functions already meet your brief. List any changes to finishes, components or accessories and confirm their availability. A concept with new dimensions, a different mechanism or a new structural arrangement needs a broader discussion of design, feasibility, tooling and evaluation. Reference drawings and a clear list of essential functions make that discussion more productive.
Which customisation decisions can affect cost or lead time?
A material or colour change may involve sourcing, minimum quantities and finish approval. Changes to moulded parts, metal geometry or component interfaces can add development, tooling and sample work. Branding, instructions and packaging also need to be specified. Identify each change separately so its effect can be assessed rather than treating all customisation as one item.
What should we evaluate before approving a sample?
Review appearance, dimensions, support, adjustments, stability and assembly against the project brief. Include the actual materials and components where these affect the decision. Record the approved configuration, open issues and required changes in writing. A visually approved sample should also be aligned with any testing or documentation needed for the destination market.
How should we discuss minimum quantities and production timing?
Include the model, configuration, expected order volume and requested delivery date in the enquiry. Existing components and a new development project can have different requirements. Sample revisions, tooling, material availability, testing and packaging can all affect readiness for production. Quantity and timing should be confirmed for the agreed scope rather than assumed from another product or order.
What needs to be agreed before moving from sampling to volume production?
Align the product specification, approved sample details, finishes, component choices and acceptance requirements. Confirm the quantity, order conditions, packaging, labels, instructions and delivery arrangement. If a requirement changes after approval, identify which documents, samples or evaluation results need to be reviewed again before production proceeds.