Product Development in Cable Industry (eg. submersible cables)

In the cable industry, product development typically involves designing cables with specific characteristics such as high conductivity, low resistance, and resistance to environmental factors such as temperature, moisture, and abrasion. The product development/ quality assurance team may also consider factors such as cost, ease of installation, and compatibility with existing infrastructure during the design phase. The design phase may follow the following steps:

1. Idea Generation: This is the first phase of the product development process, where new product ideas are generated based on market research, customer feedback, or internal brainstorming sessions. It is important for any manufacturer to maintain consistent communication with customers and have a customer-focused approach when responding to any customer feedback. Submersible cables, welding cables, booster cables, and other reliable products are born from customer feedback. Any idea that is inconsiderate of customer feedback will fail.
2. Feasibility Analysis: In this phase, the potential of the product idea is evaluated by assessing the technical feasibility, market potential, and financial viability. Technical feasibility will involve reference to standards on dimensions and test methods applicable. The financial viability relies on accurate costing from the Bill of Materials generated by the technical team. A silver cable will have the best performance but will most likely price the manufacturer out of the market.
3. Concept Development: This phase involves developing a concept or a prototype of the product, and defining the product's features, benefits, and target market. This is defining its quality features and testing out different production processes that will ensure efficient runs. It requires good planning, diligent data collection, good record keeping, and well-coordinated/aligned efforts.
4. Design and Engineering: Once the concept is approved, the product design and engineering team will create a detailed design and specification for the product, including materials, dimensions, and manufacturing processes.
5. Testing and Validation: The product is tested in a controlled environment to validate its functionality, performance, and safety. This phase includes testing for durability, reliability, usability, and compatibility.

Once the design is finalized, the team may conduct prototype testing to ensure the product meets the required specifications and standards. This may involve laboratory testing, field testing, and customer feedback. Based on the results of the testing, the product is refined further to improve performance or to address any issues that arise.

Manufacturing: After the product design is finalized, the manufacturing process begins. The product is produced in bulk quantities based on the finalized design and specification.

The final step in product development is to launch the product in the market. This involves creating marketing materials that speak to the end user, identifying potential customers, and working with sales teams to promote the product. Continuous engagement with sales teams and a good foundation of product knowledge go a long way.

Ongoing product development may also involve making updates or improvements to the product based on feedback from customers and ongoing market research.

Marketing and Launch: In this phase, the product is launched in the market, and a marketing plan is executed to create awareness, generate interest, and drive sales. This phase also involves monitoring customer feedback and making any necessary changes to the product based on the feedback.

Objective Post-Launch Evaluation: This phase involves evaluating the success of the product in the market, analyzing customer feedback, and identifying areas for improvement.

The product development process is iterative, with feedback from each phase feeding into the next, allowing for continuous improvement and innovation.

Example: Product development in submersible cables involved the creation of new or improved cables that could operate reliably underwater. Here are some examples of product development in submersible cables:

1. Increased Durability: Development of cables with higher resistance to physical and environmental stress factors such as water pressure, temperature, and abrasion.
2. Improved Conductivity: Creation of cables with higher conductivity that can transmit more power over long distances without significant power loss.
3. Advanced Insulation: Use of advanced insulation materials that can withstand underwater conditions and prevent water penetration, thereby reducing the risk of electrical shorts and system failures.
4. Enhanced Flexibility: Development of cables with greater flexibility that can bend and twist without breaking or cracking.
5. Customized Solutions: Design and manufacture of submersible cables that are tailored to meet specific customer requirements and applications.
6. Eco-Friendly: Development of cables that are environmentally friendly, with materials that can be easily recycled or reused at the end of their life cycle.

Overall, product development in submersible cables was focused on enhancing the durability, performance, and reliability of cables used in underwater applications, while also providing customized solutions to meet specific customer needs.