Top 5 mistakes that delay the market launch of a connected product

TOP 5 MISTAKES THAT DELAY THE MARKET LAUNCH OF A CONNECTED PRODUCT

Developing a connected product involves more than just designing an innovative solution.

Between regulatory requirements, cybersecurity, testing, chemical compliance, and market expectations, certain oversights can quickly lead to delays and additional costs.

Here are the five most common mistakes made during the development of a connected product.

1. Identifying regulatory requirements too late

Many projects factor in regulatory constraints only at the end of the development process. However, these constraints can influence the product architecture, component selection, and even specific features.
Key takeaway: anticipating requirements during the design phase helps avoid costly modifications and delays in bringing the product to market.

2. Underestimating cybersecurity challenges

With the rise of connected products and the introduction of new European regulations, cybersecurity has become a crucial aspect of compliance. Access management, updates, and data protection must be considered from the very early stages of the project.
Key takeaway: cybersecurity is no longer an afterthought but an integral part of product development.

3. Waiting until the end of the project to prepare for testing

Electrical safety, EMC, radio, environmental, or cybersecurity testing: these tests validate product compliance before it hits the market. Discovering a non-compliance issue at the end of the project can necessitate major modifications and push back the launch date.
Key takeaway: the earlier testing is planned, the better the risks are managed.

4. Neglecting REACH and RoHS requirements

Product compliance goes beyond technical performance. REACH and RoHS regulations impose requirements regarding specific substances found in components. Verifying compliance too late can complicate market launch and supply chain management.
Key takeaway: chemical compliance planning should begin at the component selection stage.

5. Treating each requirement in isolation

Safety, EMC, cybersecurity, REACH, RoHS, eco-design—these areas are often managed independently, even though they are closely interconnected. A holistic approach allows you to better anticipate constraints and secure the product development process more effectively.
Key takeaway: a comprehensive view simplifies compliance and reduces the risk of roadblocks.