In today's fast-paced product development landscape, speed, performance, and precision are more critical than ever. Whether you're designing a robotic assembly component or a next-gen automation system, getting to market quickly without compromising quality can be the difference between leading and lagging. That's why early supplier involvement (ESI) in the new product development (NPD) process is no longer optional—it's essential.

At MPC, we specialize in helping engineering teams accelerate their path from concept to production by getting involved early. Our expertise in polyurethane manufacturing allows us to collaborate with design engineers to optimize performance, reduce costs, and improve manufacturability long before tooling is made.

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What is Early Supplier Involvement (ESI)?

ESI means bringing manufacturing experts like MPC into the development process at the ideation or prototyping stage. Instead of handing off a final design to be quoted, ESI opens the door for proactive feedback on material choices, part geometry, tolerances, and tooling methods. This collaboration minimizes risk, shortens lead times, and often results in better-performing parts.

The Benefits of Involving MPC Early:

• Faster time-to-market - We help you move from prototype to production without roadblocks.
• Improved product performance - Our polyurethane expertise ensures your part performs in demanding environments.
• Reduced costs - Catching design or material issues early avoids expensive rework.
• Streamlined DFM - We optimize parts for manufacturability so production runs smoothly.

Example: A robotics company recently approached us during the early design stage for a high-precision, wear-resistant component. By reviewing their CAD files and discussing the part's operating conditions, we recommended a material change and slight design modification that reduced tooling costs and extended the component's service life.

Ready to Collaborate? If you're designing a new product and need a manufacturing partner who brings value from day one, contact us today to get started!