Ask MAS

Question: We have an idea for a new product and I want to find out more about working with a university on design and viability. Can MAS help? Answer: MAS regularly assists companies with the development and introduction of new products, including working alongside partners such as universities to validate and test ideas. Working with a university allows many manufacturing SMEs to take advantage of state-of-the-art testing and rapid prototyping technology at a price they can afford. However, there are several things that should be considered when picking a university. Choose a qualified product design team with industrial experience in product development and commercially successful products. They'll need to generate multiple design concepts for your product idea and have a concept selection process. They'll need to identify likely costs early on (manufacturing, tooling, development), verifying market attractiveness by researching competitors, and positioning your new product by analysing features, benefits and market price. Your product needs to be designed for manufacture at a cost that is the right price point for the customer. Your product also has to be safe, legal and environmentally sound. The design process has to establish all relevant requirements (standards, directives, CE marking) at the outset. Finally, take a look at their prototyping facilities. This is where they will build, test and establish the technical feasibility of the product – and where you can capture valuable insight from focus groups. To find out how MAS can support you throughout the process – from selecting a delivery partner right through to product introduction – call 0845 658 9600 or visit www.mas.bis.gov.uk.