Wasatch Technical Consulting
New Product Development, Ramp to volume, Production, Sustaining
In today's competitive market, implementing innovative strategies for new product development is crucial for success. Companies must focus on creating unique offerings that cater to emerging consumer needs while balancing functionality and cost-effectiveness. The process of ramping to volume involves not only efficient production scaling but also effective marketing to ensure that the product reaches its target audience. Sustaining a product throughout its life cycle requires ongoing analysis of cost trends, customer feedback, and technological advancements. This continuous improvement approach ensures that the product remains relevant and competitive. By adopting a holistic strategy that encompasses development, scaling, and sustainability, businesses can maximize their chances of success and foster long-term growth in an ever-evolving landscape.
•Test Engineering
•Defining your test needs, What attributes are most critical for your product, not just now but 5, 10 years down the companies roadmap.
•How to choose test platforms, optimizing total cost of test by balancing capitol factory footprint with volume and revenue capability
•How to choose Probers and Handlers Including buy off processes. Optimal docking techniques based on platform and product needs.
•Types of testing; wafers, packaged devices, modules or circuit boarded assemblies.
•How to develop test characterizations and screens over temperature. Developing standardized test cells.
•How to Develop gage capability processes and how to define those parameters based on your specific capability. Designing equipment vendor shoot outs.
•How to design and execute equipment vendor shoot outs. How to accurately define and compare cost of test across platforms.
•Product test plans, how to drive from bench to ATE. How to develop a compliance workbook process for test solutions.
•Packaging Engineering
•Picking the right package, How to define the POR, process of record.
•Equipment selection processes, floor space optimization, Equipment buy off processes. Designing equipment vendor shoot outs.
•How to implement a fast prototype process.
•Internal; Technician and operator training and certification processes.
•External; Choosing, auditing, negotiating with a package vendor (ATE).
•Product and product line qualifications
•Process for defining POR and out of bounds conditions.
•Understanding and successfully navigate the details of conforming and qualifying to the national and international standards.
• How to achieve and sustain compliance to Commercial grades, ISO9000, ISO9001, UL, Automotive TS19649, Q100, Q101, for Military MIL-S-19500, test method standards MIL-STD-750, MIL-STD-883.
•Qual plan optimization and test method compliance.
-Product Engineering
Product engineering in the semiconductor and electronics sectors has undergone significant transformation over the past few decades. In the early days of the industry, a product engineer was responsible for every aspect of the product lifecycle, often referred to as "cradle to grave." This meant ownership over tasks such as filling out fabrication and assembly travelers, placing mask orders, running wafer lots, and scheduling builds. Moreover, they developed all test solutions, conducted product characterization, created data sheets, performed failure analysis, ensured qualification, handled customer interactions and returns, managed projects, and sustained yields. However, the complexity of these responsibilities made it challenging to cultivate great engineers capable of managing all these tasks effectively, revealing that such a comprehensive approach was not sustainable or scalable in today’s fast-paced environment
In the early stages of a startup, founders often find themselves involved in multiple roles out of necessity, navigating the "all of the above" stage. However, as the business expands, the need for streamlined processes and specialized roles becomes critical for success. Modern product teams generally comprise distinct functions, including design, product, packaging, testing, quality assurance, marketing engineers, and project managers, with the product engineer typically leading the charge. Achieving the right balance between these roles is essential for optimizing efficiency and driving growth. Our expertise can assist you in finding that equilibrium tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring your team is well-equipped to meet the demands of a growing market.