augmented reality

In electronic manufacturing, rapid prototyping is the quickest and most seamless way to reduce the speed to ramp. Electronic products need to be thoroughly tried and tested before they can be launched to market. We provide customers with a working version of their Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) so that they can check functionality and meet the design specification. Our prototyping, however, goes beyond PCBs; we produce entire complex multi-level system products for our customers, including racks and cabinets.

Key benefits to rapid prototyping include:

 1. Maximise efficiency

When we produce rapid prototypes, we support our customers by engaging early on in their design process with our New Product Introduction (NPI) team. We take time to determine their exact product requirements and we never cut corners in terms of quality, measurement or process. This approach means our customers’ products are made with long-term efficiency, life and cost-reduction in mind, at the point where the design is still fluid and changes can easily be made.

2. Built-in contingency

Wherever possible, we build-in attrition and contingency plans. This means that if anything goes wrong, we can monitor progress and still deliver the full amount of product requested. However, our strict governance protocols and processes are designed to eliminate the risk of problems or failings at every stage, using automation to eliminate human error and increase efficiency.

3. Smooth transition to large scale production

The equipment we use for prototyping is the same we use for volume production. Prototypes are initially created in optimal batch sizes according to each customer’s requirements, which avoid any wastage. When the product is ready, we ensure a smooth transition to large scale manufacturing.

4. Generate accurate labour costing

We have developed sophisticated labour estimate algorithms which allow us to generate accurate and rapid labour costing based on the construction of specific items. Actual process times are measured with set KPIs against these estimates, meaning we can stay on top of progress and ensure everything is realistic and sustainable. 

5. Establish baseline costs with smart software

 We have a custom-developed programme which compares a customer’s bill of materials against our in-house stock base, before filtering this out via APIs to various distributor networks. This is a rapid and effective way to establish baseline costs and sets us apart from many of our competitors, who approach this process manually.

When a technology start-up from the US came to us for help in manufacturing its cutting-edge AR helmet, we relished the challenge. The product design was still at an early stage so we were able to quickly implement robust processes and deliver the product from concept to ramp in the shortest of timeframes.

Making it easy for others to do business with you is vital, especially in the current political climate

There is no escaping the current headlines around Brexit, from scaremongering over the repercussions of a hard deal or the unknown consequences of no deal at all. For UK manufacturers, indeed for all UK businesses, the most frustrating aspect of this situation is exactly that: the unknown. Knowing the likely outcome and what will happen, won’t happen, or needs to happen is vital: without this knowledge, it’s like walking into a meeting with no agenda or starting a project with no strategy. Business works well within parameters and when it’s driven by facts, plans and targets; this current situation leaves no room to make any such plans, let alone embark upon them.

However, Brexit is not the first defining moment in British business and certainly won’t be the last. The priority now is for ‘UK PLC’, from the political stage down to each and every boardroom, to collectively work to make themselves an attractive business proposition. Whether Brexit is hard, soft or deal-less, the fact remains that we are a nation with goods to give and services to offer. The same goes for businesses: no matter what the specific circumstances or market conditions are, if we shout loudly about what we do, how we do it better and the results we can deliver, the rest is largely inconsequential.

In business, opportunity is everything. Turning every challenge into a door to be opened and a new prospect to be explored is the best way forward. In terms of Brexit, despite inevitable challenges, leaving the EU will present new opportunities and the chance to try new avenues and strategies. This can be translated into business: every challenge encountered is and should be an opportunity to try a different method, whether it’s trying a new supplier, switching to automated processes or opening a new location.

With any business negotiation, it’s crucial to establish what factors you can emphasise or accentuate in order to sell your best strengths and make it difficult for the other side to disagree to your terms. Now is the not the time to be modest: shout about your achievements and showcase your results. That said, it’s also vital to convey a positive attitude and sense of collaboration. No one is going to want to do business with any individual or organisation that seems as if it will be a tricky customer.

Whatever happens with the Brexit negotiations, it’s essential that the UK is perceived as an attractive prospect and an exciting partner: a lesson that can be taken and repeated in every business. Together, if we play our cards right, we could be a force to be reckoned with.