Commercialization is the process of new product development. The process begins with ideation, continues with design and prototypes, and is completed by manufacturing and sales. In short, the process is from mind to market – translating "know how" and innovation into valuable products. During the commercialization process, companies utilize outside sources to support them with the services and materials necessary to bring the project to completion. Kform has a diverse client base and provides assistance at various project gateways – entry points in the product development process. A passion for innovation, coupled with comprehensive manufacturing services, empowers Kform to assist clients from the “napkin sketch” through to production runs. Central to the commercialization process is ongoing management, collaboration and quality control. These key elements are fundamental to the success of a project. The goals of Kform extend beyond providing quality manufacturing and engineering services to forming lasting business relationships with clients.

Product Development Commercialization Diagram

Conceive

Conceptualization or ideation is the first phase (annotated in figure as "G1" representing Gateway 1) in breaking new ground with any creative, innovative project. The exact needs of a product are often difficult to express explicitly by a client. Kform has the capacity to conduct a thorough requirements and specifications analysis process to ensure the viable success of a project. The customization of the radio frequency shielding equipment rack cabinets is a prime example. By accurately capturing client needs for this complex product, Kform is able to produce a fitting concept design. Concept designs are considered a bridging step transitioning the new product development process to the Design phase. Deliverables (as annotated by D1) may be a formalized needs statement, estimate, scope of work, or prototype concept design as dictated by the goals of the customer and project.

• Concept – Improving existing widget – next generation
• Requirements – "What does widget do?" - functionality - feasibility, capabilities, who will use the widget?
• Specification – Physical size, properties, precise requirements

Design

Validation and “Proof of concept” analysis is critical in journey from idea to production. Detailed design activities, such as documentation and prototyping, help refine a concept into finalization. Documentation through formalized requirements/specifications and CAx technologies, such as Computer Aided Design (CAD), produce a set of presentation materials capable of assessing the viability of a project or capturing necessary funds and contracts. Prototyping is a natural progression of simulation, validation, and optimization tasks in the design phase. Innovations in Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and experienced journeymen smooth the transition from paper to reality. Similar to the previous function of the concept design, prototyping acts as a bridging activity transitioning the project to the next realize phase.

• Concept Design – Initial proof of feasibility, basic schematic documentation, Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) pricing
• Detail Design – Basic schematic is detailed, issues resolved, details specified such as hardware choices finish etc.
• Tool Design – Understanding of preferred manufacturing methods, use of fixtures / jigs, CAM

Realize

Production and deliver of the finalized product requires skilled professionals and quality management. Incorporating “best practice” techniques resulting from 25 years of experience and in-house designed management software, Kform manufactures results. Quality control is the Kform assurance.

• Manufacturing Planning – Purchase tools and materials, schedule resources equipment / manpower
• Manufacturing – Manufacturing operations, inspection
• Build / Assemble – Assembly of subcomponents to create item, final inspection