I am currently working with a customer on a product development project. The customer decided this product had to be made in China to be viable right from the start so we've been working through the product development process for the last 18 months. We are almost done and the first full container will ship this month.
It's been a very stressful process. Change after change and adjustment after adjustment we have struggled through the issues. Our staff in China has done a very good job and the customer has been patient for the most part. Here are a few of the lessons that have been reinforced for me during this process:
1. If possible don't do new product development in China. Develop the product here and make the first few runs here. Then transition to China after the bugs are worked out.
2. Have very detailed specifications and inspection criteria.
3. Evaluate and test all samples comprehensively.
4. Have realistic time lines that allow for complications.
5. Take the customer to the factory during at least one key approval stage.
6. Be patient, and positive, and keep your eye on the big picture.
Those are kind of broad strokes, but they contain key components of a successful product development project if you really break them down. I am going to have a big celebration when this project is complete.
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