Embarking on a new product launch can be a nerve-wracking time for any business because there are a lot of hurdles to clear. In the fast-moving product development space, risk is everywhere, and something IS going to go wrong. But, by understanding potential issues and proactively addressing them, you can minimize impact and lay the groundwork for a product release to be proud of.
The Reality of New Product Challenges
New products are, by their very nature, still maturing, and bumps in the road are to be expected during their release. These issues can arise for a variety of reasons, including design, software, production, component selection, component wear, or wider macroeconomic factors. No matter where they start, these challenges must be tackled head-on. And, the only way to do that is by knowing where they start and what they affect.
Time and distance can intensify these challenges, especially when working with remote production facilities. Time differences between nations can lead to communication delays, and cultural differences may result in misunderstandings or misinterpretations of quality expectations. Working with a diverse team requires additional attention to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that expectations are clearly communicated at all times.
Also, supply chain delays, reliance on external manufacturing, and the pressure to maintain a competitive edge can all contribute to setbacks. The complex nature of modern supply chains can create dependencies on multiple suppliers, increasing the likelihood of encountering delays during manufacturing due to component shortages.
Navigating the Challenges with WATS
While problems during a new product launch are inevitable, having a robust system in place can help you minimize risks and address issues more efficiently. WATS, a data-driven solution, can aid you in identifying production issues early and provide valuable insights to improve both testing and production processes.
WATS offers the following benefits for a smoother product launch:
- Real-time problem analysis: By uncovering and examining issues as they occur, WATS enables production and product owners to address them promptly and effectively.
- Efficient tuning and testing: WATS provides the right data at the right stage, saving time and resources during the tuning and testing phases of product development.
- Issue identification: WATS helps pinpoint the root causes of problems, whether they stem from an incomplete understanding of a new product or assembly and production issues.
- Cost-effective prototyping: Early identification of production challenges allows for the development of more efficient prototypes – saving time and money.
So there you have it. No product launch is without risk and challenges. But, with the right people, processes, and tools you can overcome the hurdles and get a product to market the right way.
Want to make your product launches a success? Get WATS, understand where your production problems start, and get them fixed.
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