Silicone product projects usually begin with one of two routes: adapting an existing product or developing a new design. The appropriate route depends on the required differentiation, technical input and commercial plan.
Customize an existing product
This route starts with a product that already exists. The review may cover available colors, logo methods, packaging and how several items could form a coordinated set. The product itself may have limits that cannot be changed without new tooling.
Useful inputs
- The exact reference product or SKU
- Preferred color references
- Logo artwork and desired position
- Packaging structure and sales channel
- Estimated quantity and target market
Develop a new mold
This route begins with a new form, dimension, function or construction that cannot be achieved through the selected existing product. A useful review needs clearer design inputs and additional decisions before tooling or sampling can be evaluated.
Useful inputs
- Sketches, drawings, CAD files, samples or functional references
- Critical dimensions, interfaces and performance requirements
- Material and hardness requirements where already defined
- Target market and document expectations
- Forecast quantity, packaging concept and launch window
How to choose
Use the existing-product route when the current product form is acceptable and differentiation can come from color, branding, packaging or assortment. Consider new development when the product geometry, function, dimensions or construction must be unique.
Tooling cost, MOQ, sampling plan and lead time are project-specific. XLEE will review these items against the selected product or development brief rather than publish a universal promise.