Coastcom needed a new, highly flexible solution for their new Broadband Network product. It had to be easily field configurable for many different network technologies, while being very cost effective. The “AIM” product also need to be visually strong and unique, to establish a new identity for Coastcom to reflect the innovation and technical advances of the unit.
Strategy
We worked closely with Coastcom’s vendors (and a number of prospective ones) to determine the most cost-effective production processes. We took into account the AIM’s functional, safety, and regulatory requirements, as well as other criteria such as quantity and durabliity. The visual language grew out of its interface needs, such as easy “hot-swap” of the cards and redundant power supplies, and the imperative of error-free diagnostics.
Solution
By using the best process for each part (sheet metal, injection molded plastic, silk-screened labels), we reduced the production cost substantially over Coastcom’s previous products. The process also resulted in a greatly reduced part count, which simplified production, stocking of parts, and increased the unit’s reliability.