Over the past few months, I've had a number of clients ready to launch great products.  Many, though, are "idea people," with the passion behind their products but with limited or no experience in bringing the product to market. The pairing of both a great idea and someone able to execute on it is necessary to bring the idea to fruition.  As our quote this month spells out plainly, each alone is "worthless."  

 

I believe there are two key areas where manufacturing information is lacking for "idea people."   The first is for those venturing into manufacturing for the first time.  Their questions arise primarily from budgeting, inventory planning, where to build, and quality control.  The second is for seasoned product manufacturers who are questioning whether their manufacturing relationship is maximized for their needs and are  rethinking their relationships in light of the recession.  They question whether they could do better elsewhere in either cost or quality and whether their intellectual property is protected in the relationship.  Over the next few weeks, we'll have guest bloggers contribute thoughts on this from finance and operational perspectives.  We'll also hear from one or two clients who have done this and their lessons learned!   For me, I'm kicking the month off with a post on the critical aspects of manufacturing agreements. 

 

Our Equinox Focus seminar is on March 24 and will be presented by myself and Robert Nitschke of Arago Partners.  We will address the questions above, as well as discuss your manufacturing related questions. Remember, the Equinox Focus program is free for active Equinox clients (those we've done business with in the past 12 months).  Simply email us, and we'll add you to the roster for the program!    

 

We see companies more aware of how they can decrease costs in their business and those jumping in are very aware of their cash limitations.  We hope to provide some insights over the month to help you make the right decision for your products and company.