Case Study

The “follow the sun” concept has been in use since the realisation of good Internet connection speed. Tools such as Gotomeeting support live sharing of CAD files, sound and text, email functions well as a delayed communicator.

A recent customer needed a feasibility review of a new design, with a very deep core, short snap hooks and complex over mold (inside). Calculations showed that the snap hooks wouldn’t be able to sustain multiple applications. A typical life specification would dictate at least 600 applications for a 3 year warranty.

After thorough review a decision was made to focus on an entirely different design, which turned out very succesful in terms of sales. The review process took place in a matter of a week, with 5 different design options.

Most meetings were conducted via Gotomeeting, with some email support during non-overlapping hours. Off hours responses from this side would be in review during US daytime, with counter proposals arriving the next morning in China, ready for discussion.

This smooth cooperation lead to a quick convergence to the most successful solution: US marketing, designers and engineers can combine the strength of knowledge and economics of manufacturing in China, with understanding of the market culture and consumer demands on this side.