10 Tips For Managing New Product Development Remotely

2. Plan Ahead

A clear and shared understanding of the product vision, customer experience, launch date, sales channel, etc., provide valuable inputs that should be reflected in the customer PRD (which includes information from the MRD).

PCH develops a SOW based on the PRD and uses a phase-gate approach to track progress. We identify and map deliverables, continually referring back to the PRD at each phase. We determine when defined criteria are met, and the project can proceed to the next phase. We flag issues that may present risk, and we update the PRD and the risk mitigation plan before moving forward. We also review for redundancies and deliverables that may not have been included in the initial SOW. In the event of an aggressive launch date, it’s critical to know the product feature priorities (e.g., PO-P1, Px) and those which can be integrated later, as well as the associated risks with making adjustments to the plan.

With an aggressive launch date, it’s critical to know the product feature priorities (e.g., PO-P1, Px) and those which can be integrated later, as well as the associated risks with making adjustments to the plan

5. Measure Twice, Cut Once

The first phase of NPI is often defined as DFM, where product design is reviewed for manufacturability and updated as necessary. DFM should be considered as early as possible in the PD phase (during detailed design for prototyping). Design changes that are made later can significantly impact product performance and easily render prototyping results obsolete. For example, changes to mechanical components such as plastics, tooling draft angles, parting and weld lines, gate types, and positions, air traps, etc., will impact design.

Typically, early-stage DFM considerations can bring the product to ~80% readiness even before it reaches the final DFM stage. This early effort reaps benefits in time and costs. Also, knowing that the product has been prototyped and tested with DFM in mind, enables valuable peace of mind.

Sustainability should also be considered in the earliest phases where socially responsible and eco-friendly choices can be made both in product design and the supply chain design

7. It’s a Team Effort

Each project requires different skillsets which must work together harmoniously to be successful. Sometimes redefining team structure is necessary to accommodate unforeseen issues or opportunities. Make sure to create and maintain a collaborative environment where team members feel valued. Good teamwork will often accelerate deliverables.

PCH often supports in-house teams and works with third-party experts. We have expertise in all team functions and disciplines, and we provide integrated solutions that are agile and flexible. We also design flexible and responsive supply chains to deliver direct-to-consumer anywhere in the world.

The team must be capable of recognizing red flags early. Having risk assessment and mitigation plans at every step of NPD is critical

8. Closely Monitor Priorities and Progress

With many stakeholders involved, key information and updates can easily be missed. Be sure to define early the communication channels/cadence, decision-makers, and communication tools you will utilize and stick with them. Communication must be clear, honest, open, and challenges, as they arise, must be flagged early. PCH utilizes multiple communication channels such as Teams, Zoom, Webex, Google Hangouts, etc.

9. Be Flexible and Efficient

Circumstances can arise that were unexpected, whether it’s sourcing issues, test results, or other, which can impact your schedule and costs. The team must be capable of recognizing red flags early. Having risk assessment and mitigation plans at every step of NPD is critical.

Multiple tools are available to make workstreams efficient, both remotely across geographies and cross-functionally. PCH uses Smartsheet, Jira, EPDM, Altium vault, which is accessed globally by multiple functions and disciplines.