Test Lab Transformer: Guilherme's Quest to Build a Global Testing Network

Editor's Note: The FOX TALES series dives into the passionate people behind the products who contribute to our overall success. From production workers, engineers, salespeople, marketers, and beyond, each person contributes to how we collectively drive innovation, challenge convention, and shape the future of Fox Factory.?

To pack the latest innovation into our products, we need the latest and greatest equipment and methods. Guilherme D. Martins, supervisor of test engineering for our bike products, was brought on board the team back in Oct. 2022 as a test lab technician with a keen eye for efficiency. Guilherme's background in engineering and his natural curiosity equipped him to tackle complex challenges and develop solutions for the test lab in Burnaby, Canada.??

Guilherme, was tasked with getting the state-of-the-art test lab equipment in Burnaby up and running without missing project deadlines. Each test lab had its own procedures, equipment, and software, leading to variations in data collection, analysis, and reporting. These labs play a critical role in the development process, conducting rigorous testing on components before full production.??

The Quest Begins: Building a Test Lab from Scratch?

Guilherme's first hurdle was familiarization. The new testing equipment was sophisticated and required a deep understanding of its intricacies. He spent countless hours studying manuals and trialing the equipment to become proficient in operating the new machines. There wasn’t an in-house expert he could call; Guilherme became the expert the team needed.??

?Next, Guilherme identified the operational processes for testing production products and recognized areas for improvement. He noticed that a significant amount of time was spent manually recording test data. The process was inconsistent and inefficient and slowed down the overall testing process. Additionally, it was difficult to compare results between labs.??

?Recognizing the need for a more efficient and reliable data capture system, Guilherme conceptualized a mobile app specifically designed for the test lab environment. The app would allow technicians to seamlessly record test data automatically at the testing station. This eliminated the need for manual data entry, reducing the risk of mistakes and saving valuable time. Additionally, Guilherme worked with IT to integrate the app seamlessly with the test lab database, ensuring that all test data was recorded and stored securely in a central location.?

?The launch of the mobile app marked a significant turning point for the test labs. Technicians quickly embraced the new system, appreciating its ease of use and time-saving benefits. The app also improved data consistency, as all technicians were now following the same standardized data collection procedures.?

?

Building a Global Network: Standardization and Collaboration?

Guilherme recognized that achieving global standardization across the testing labs would require a well-defined plan, strong leadership buy-in, and effective communication. He took a data-driven approach to show the potential gains through standardization of data collection, testing efficiency, and increased collaboration and communication across teams. Guilherme gives credit to his managers, Kirk Post and Kevin Chu, for listening and supporting his ideas.??

?

“Gui has pioneered a new standard for global test execution by stitching together his technical expertise with a collection of novel tools and technologies,” said Post, manager of test engineering. “His perspective and team efforts have and will continue to reshape the landscape of test quality and efficiency one innovation at a time - this is just the beginning!”?

?

Due to his efforts, Guilherme has poised all the SSG labs to have the ability to shift projects to other labs, ensuring top-priority projects meet deadlines. Engineers at any location can collaborate on projects due to testing and data standardization, leveraging the experience across teams. Guilherme also created data visualization programs to identify deadlines and potential risks across projects, enabling managers to better plan and shift resources to address pain points.?

?

The Power of Innovation and Collaboration?

Ever so humble, Guilherme thanked his mentor, Gary Yokota, and praised his teammates David Symons and Emile Brunelle. Their collaborative spirit shaped and enabled some of the improvements implemented in the later phases.??

?

“They are always interested and willing to excel,” Guilherme stated. “Their commitment to the quality and efficiency of our work is outstanding.”?

?

What started as a challenge to integrate new equipment has transformed into a global testing network. By creating a scalable and efficient testing infrastructure, Guilherme has positioned the company for continued growth and success. His work is a testament to the power of curiosity, collaboration, and a continuous improvement mindset. Guilherme's story demonstrates the positive impact of one person's ingenuity and drive to make a difference.?