Research path to clip development
Product development and the success of seeing that development through to commercial reality has many factors affecting success or failure.
In the case of the clip development a total commitment from the wool industry’s key bodies, the R&D funding company AWI and the multitude of consultants, growers and collaborators has ensured one of the fastest developments through to a viable product for manufacturer, marketer and woolgrower.
The stages and management process throughout the development need to be monitored and flexible enough so that changes of design, process or direction can be implemented without delay.
Download a diagram of the process (.jpg 750KB) detailed below.
Concept and feasibility - November 2004
- development of the possible concepts/ideas to meet the problem/solution;
- research previous work done in other areas; and
- determine the possible development team requirements.
Efficacy design and geometry - March to June 2005
- develop engineering designs that can work in theory;
- consider the operator’s needs; and
- consider the animal care needs.
Trials - November 2004 to July 2007
- controlled research trials;
- on-farm variety of lamb-marking operations;
- on-farm variety of sheep and skin types;
- animal welfare and behavioural studies; and
- clip material trials.
Results - December 2004 to August 2007
- to determine effectiveness and repeatability;
- to determine next stage of development;
- to inform all involved; and
- to use in the process of finding a commercial partner.
Redesign - January 2005 to March 2007
- modify to improve effect or use;
- modify to reduce failure;
- select final version; and
- tool-make, injection trial, manufacture adequate numbers for trials.
Pre-commercial trials and road test - August to December 2006
- challenge all findings with large sub-section of market sector;
- monitor human behaviour in the uptake and use of the clips; and
- develop training materials for future operator use.
Commercialisation - August 2006 to July 2007
- expression of interest;
- send dossier of results to interested companies;
- review submissions;
- negotiate pre-licence contract and clauses for licence;
- prepare and sign licence to manufacture and supply; and
- provide technology transfer support throughout process.
The research path requirements:
- project managment
- investment management
- risk management
- relationship management
- administration management
- information management
Download a diagram of the process (.jpg 750KB)
See also: Clips ahoy! Release approaches or return to the Battling the Blowfly supplement index page.