KNOW all the links in your value chain
Your product’s value chain includes everyone with a vested interest in your product … from your widget suppliers through to internal staff, distributors, sales, specifiers, end users … and everyone in between!
ENGAGE all the links in your value chain
A chain is only as strong as its weakest link so make sure you’ve met the needs of ALL the stakeholders/members of the chain. Miss one and the whole development program could come crashing down! The most effective way to do this is to ensure you establish and maintain cross-functional teams.
UNDERSTAND all the links in your value chain
Ask questions! And REALLY listen! Your little gem might not come from the ‘end user’ … it might come from a key supplier with an ingenious way to make a new component … or, someone on the production line with a faster or simpler way to assemble your product … or the receptionist who is sick of dealing with the same customer complaints.