In every new product development process, the prototype stage is designed to create a physical model used to test and perfect the product before mass production. However, the production process for the new product must also be developed to match the specific finalized product. The transition from development to production (NPI) is essentially a prototype phase for developing the production process itself, during which all the components and stages of mass production are thoroughly planned in preparation for launching the product to market.
NPI Process – Key Stages
Many of our clients regularly utilize Sherman's NPI (New Product Introduction) services, benefiting from efficient, cost-effective, and smooth processes for launching new products. The company provides these services to small, medium, and leading companies in the aviation, defense, healthcare, cosmetics, electronics, and telecom sectors. The NPI process can vary greatly from client to client, as it is tailored specifically to the development needs of the new product. Throughout this process, six key stages can be outlined:
- Formulating an NPI Plan – Assembling the NPI team, identifying resources required to complete the concept phase, defining timelines and goals, and assigning responsibilities among team members.
- Feasibility Assessment – Building a CAD model, creating a flowchart for each development phase, assessing the concept design and its marketability, and evaluating the continuation of development with the current design through engineering verification testing.
- Product Development – Preparing and testing a prototype, evaluating the prototype with beta users as needed, allocating production space, creating a procurement plan for production resources, including raw materials, and assessing the practical and financial efficiency of the production plan.
- Pre-Production – Preparing molds and tools for production, ordering raw materials and production means, and conducting a pilot run of the production line.
- Production – Manufacturing the finished product, performing quality control for each batch, and launching the product.
- Overall Evaluation – Reviewing pilot run results and making necessary improvements for the next production series.
From Development to Production / NPI at Sherman
The NPI process at Sherman begins at the design and prototype preparation stage, considering engineering, economic, and professional factors of mass production, including production costs, manufacturing techniques, and production complexity. This approach allows the prototype to be tested while incorporating all the necessary adjustments for future mass production.
Next, Sherman conducts a back-end report to provide an initial review and summary of the assembly process and identify areas for improvement.
Finally, clients can use our advanced manufacturing system to bring their products to production and market readiness. Sherman offers a complete set of advanced capabilities for transitioning from development to production under one roof. We do this according to the highest industry standards, with some of the best minds in the field and a comprehensive and diverse infrastructure for planning, development, procurement, and production.