Articles by Smithwise

1. Prototypes To Production: 5 Steps To A Smooth Manufacturing Transfer 2/9/2017

   A product's entire evolution, from thoughtful design through prototypes and iteration, inherently becomes the footing for an efficient transition to manufacture. The steps discussed here identify what to expect, and how to respond as a team to move a well-designed device to volume production.

2. 3D Printing Production Medical Devices — Pitfalls And Best Practices 12/20/2016

   There are circumstances under which 3D printing is a perfectly reasonable production method, but device makers need to be aware that there are precautions and processes to consider as a result of the unique risks associated with 3D printing manufacturing. 

3. 6 Strategies To Obtain Genuine Feedback For Products That Require Behavior Change 10/31/2016

   When no existing product addresses a problem customers may have, adoption — and, presumably, regular use — of a new product requires behavior change, and attempting to address behavior change through a survey leads to highly unreliable data. 

4. When Minimum Viable Product (MVP) Goes Wrong 9/25/2016

   Minimum viable product (MVP) is a strategy that has gained rapid and widespread acceptance among the startup community. Used effectively, it can be a compelling strategy to evaluate product-market fit, which often is the largest risk facing a new medical device company.

5. 3 Strategies To Achieve Big While Spending Small 8/12/2016

   Medtech entrepreneurs need to think like their investors and structure their operations accordingly. Excessive spending without achieving the critical milestones will not be tolerated; nor will an overly restricted cash burn that leaves a project limping forward.

6. Do You Really Need A Prototype? 7/13/2016

   A functional prototype advances the conversation with key stakeholders and builds the value of a medical device concept and business opportunity. Still, while prototyping certainly is part of a development and risk-reduction strategy, prototyping should not be considered the strategy itself.