I think it’s tough to figure out how to turn your idea into an actual product.” Where do I start? The first step is to find a partner to whom you can outsource production. Then, once you find that partner, the following outsourcing process will help you turn your idea into a reality.
- Product concept
It starts with a good idea- an idea that comes to you in a dream, an idea that comes to you out of necessity, or an idea that comes to you during the product life cycle. Whatever the case, you can turn that great idea into a realistic concept for your product. At this point, the subcontractor uses their knowledge of materials and manufacturing techniques to determine if it is feasible to build the product. Then, in order to move forward with marketing the product, they must decide if there is a market for the development and if it is profitable. We then determine if the product is marketable and satisfactory and if the answer is yes, then move to the planning stage of the manufacturing process.
- Logistics
After the product is manufactured, who will deliver it to the right retailer, distribution center, or warehouse? This is another important aspect of outsourcing. While this seems like an easy step in the process, it is pretty complex. A good procurement consulting firm can help you in this. However, logistics is more than just “shipping.” Experts will coordinate whether the shipment from the factory will be sent by air or sea. They also make sure that the goods clear customs and that duties, taxes, and fees are calculated correctly. We work with carriers and freight forwarders to arrange rail and land deliveries to your warehouse or terminal, minimizing transportation costs and time. Most outsourcing companies have team members involved in the logistics process, and you can use their knowledge to facilitate this part of the process.
- Test production
Once you have created a solid design, the next step is to develop a prototype of your product. If your supply company is responsible for this process, they should be able to produce a prototype with the intended final materials with ample lead time. If budget as well as time is limited, you can also use composite materials. Alternatively, if necessary, fewer than 100 units can be built to test form, fit and function before mass production. This is often vital in the automotive and OEM industries.
- Design
After the product concept is solidified, the design phase begins. This is where the detailed design of the product takes place. The product’s exact specifications are determined, including the dimensions, weight, and size of each part of the product. The design also includes the selection of materials, such as colors and trims, and the choice of finishing methods. Once these selections are made, the subcontractor will create production-level designs and determine the best manufacturing method for production. They will also provide an estimate of design costs. The advantage of using an outsourcer at this stage is that they have relationships with several factories that specialize in this design, allowing for efficient and effective production.
- Sampling approval
Once you’re satisfied with the prototype, it’s time to start the sampling approval process. The sourcing company you work with should have a detailed sampling approval process in place to ensure that your exact product requirements are met before you begin production. A supply company that focuses on producing a quality product from the ground up will have a sample tool approval andand a sample approval prior to production. Tooling approval refers to the execution of the tooling with the finished material, including inspection reports and appropriate certification. The final approval sample is a “usable” packaging sample to ensure no problems during mass production.
Let’s Wrap Up:
In order to turn your great idea into a final product, you will need to go through the above mentioned process. And in order to make this process as smooth as possible, it is recommended that you work with a sourcing company in the USA that can use its experience and knowledge to guide you through these steps. These companies have long standing relationships with suppliers, factories, shippers, and industry experts to help our clients navigate the manufacturing process smoothly.