Best practices for scaling hardtech innovation

David Thompson, Program Director

The journey from prototype to mass production can be full of twists and turns. Following these best practices for scaling hardtech innovation can smooth out the journey and help innovators and startups grow faster.

• Documentation, documentation, documentation – The key to setting up a successful partnership with your supply chain is to ensure clear expectations are set. The best way to effectively do this is to build out your documentation. Such documentation includes your CAD files, bill of materials, and assembly instructions. While it may feel like boring paperwork, continuously updating and improving your documentation helps to reduce the risks — and potentially costly outcomes – of miscommunication. For documentation resources, see FORGE’s Managing Development Workbook.
• Invest in the relationship – Take the time to learn about your manufacturer and how they run their business. Developing a genuine relationship establishes a foundation of the trust which will help you to navigate the inevitable challenges that come up when scaling a hardware business. FORGE can help with warm introductions to right-fit, local manufacturing partners.
• Communicate early and often – As new needs arise, communicate them with your manufacturer proactively – this reduces the risk of unintended delays and disruptions. Establish a regular meeting cadence with your manufacturer to deepen communication channels and serve as a forum to navigate any challenges that might arise during your production cycle.
• Plan proactively but prioritize strategically – When developing a physical product, it’s important to proactively look ahead to challenges that will arise when scaling such as regulatory hurdles or anticipated changes in manufacturing methods. The art of scaling a hardware company is having the perspective to see the upcoming hurdles while having the discipline to address what is most pressing and actionable at the moment.

For hardtech innovation mentorship, manufacturing readiness education, and connections to right-fit suppliers and manufacturers that can help your startup achieve its next build stage, reach out to FORGE for a Product Development Session.