Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1525004
20 DESIGN007 MAGAZINE I AUGUST 2024 Everything you've read about the cost-sav- ing process is controlled by the project leader's actions; the project leader is like the chef in the kitchen. e engineers and designers will then limit their decisions based on the requirements set by the project leader. ey become the "sous chef " in the process. e engineers and designers then set the limits and specifications in their documentation affecting purchasing, fabrication, assembly, and test. ey become the "station chef " or "line chef." at's why the CID and CID+ classes focus so much on the design engineer's decisions. But no one really addresses or guides the proj- ect leaders for their role in the cost saving process. So, project leaders, this is for you. Here are some guide- lines for getting those cost savings you so desire. 1. Start With the Team e first cost saving method starts with the team. Hav- ing all the input possible at the very beginning and peri- odically during the project development allows all play- ers to realize the impact of their decisions. Team meetings can be online and/or in person. Representatives from all those working on the prod- uct development should attend. A good project leader has regular design reviews to be sure everyone has input to the project. No finger point- ing. True input and problem- solving generate creativity and real cost savings. is is not an easy task. Setting lim- its for the product features and defining what goes into this model and future models is critical for making sure everyone works toward the same objectives. 2. Identify What Can Be Done e second cost-saving method is to identify what can and cannot be done concurrently. Many times, this depends on the product's maturity. Look at what can be reused from previous products and designs. If one group is waiting for information from another, discover what else they can contribute to the overall completion of the project. When designers are waiting for input, they Figure 2: A marked-up excerpt from the IPC PCBA Checklist 17.