The PDMA Handbook of New Product Development

27.6. Which System Is Right for My Business?

For those considering rapid prototyping for the first time or who have been using one or more of these processes described in this chapter, it is necessary to define and assess specific needs and budget. If you have been using outside service bureaus for rapid prototyping models, record and track all those expenses and trends for types of RP models used. This helps when analyzing actual expenses and return on investment, and will point you in the direction of the process that best suits your current needs.

NOTE

Consider the "real cost" of a mistake made in the design process: time for redesign, labor, and rescheduling.

When evaluating the alternatives, think about your use of rapid prototyping. Look back at each use of rapid prototyping and evaluate how that model worked out. Were there issues with the quality of the model? Were your needs based around design and form study or engineering a working model? Would you have benefited by making more models to explore the decision-making process? Did the cost of the model put a burden on the project? What went wrong (and right) when obtaining your previous models? What space can you provide if you buy a RP system? Can you afford this purchase? Consider the real "cost" of a mistake made in the design process: redesign time, labor, and scheduling.

Avoid any decisions that are influenced by those who resist change in your organization. Listen to their concerns, of course, but realize that some ...