If you're building a medical device start-up or spin-out, working with an external development partner can save time, money, and stress - especially in the early days. Based on a recent talk given as part of our support of The TBAT Innovation Challenge, here’s our thoughts on how to get the most from your external support:

Faster, smarter development

Fail fast, learn early: use your funding more wisely

As a spin-out or start-up, your unique IP defines your value. Early funding is there to test what you don’t know—quickly. It’s better to find out what won’t work now, than after you’ve spent time and money building a full team around it. That’s why it makes sense to keep your core team focused on your IP, and use a development partner that already has the systems, experience, and people in place to support
you.

You’ll move faster, reduce risk, and hit key milestones without building everything from scratch.

Think of it like building a self-driving car: don’t reinvent the wheels or engine - focus on the new parts required, like the sensors and algorithms, that make your product unique.

Use tried and tested quality management systems

Medical device design consultancies are used to working with regulatory standards like ISO 13485. They already have the knowledge of quality systems, tools, and processes in place to help you move quickly and stay compliant. Some, like OPD, who are ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 certified, work within these standards every day and can think strategically about when and where these processes add value.

Ready-to-go facilities at your disposal

In addition to strategy and processes, consultancies also grant you access to their facilities, so you don’t have the hold-up or cost of building your own. This means you can bypass the research, planning, equipment and installation costs required for advanced spaces like microbiology laboratories for biological samples handling, or pilot production areas with particulate filtration and bio-burden monitoring.

Consultancies also offer access to product development essentials, such as fully equipped workshops, CAD tools, and rapid prototyping facilities, such as 3D printers - helping you accelerate development without infrastructure or overheads.

Reduced pressure on your team

Small companies often struggle with limited time and resources. A good partner can take on the heavy lifting, freeing your team to focus on strategy and product innovation. You stay in control, while they help you deliver.

Resourcing internally and fast hiring can prove to be challenging in creating a desirable team culture. Using a consultancy where the team and culture are already established removes this burden and pressure on
internal teams.

Access ready-made expertise and networks

Consultancies have done this before and know what you need. They bring deep experience, industry knowledge, and helpful connections. That means fewer missteps and more chances to move your product forward, faster.

Unlock the benefits of a medical design partner

Partnering with a specialist medical device design consultancy isn’t just about saving time and money; it’s about giving your innovation the best possible chance to succeed. From ready-made expertise and certified processes to advanced facilities and industry connections, the right partner can help you move faster, avoid costly pitfalls, and focus on what makes your product unique. If you’re ready to accelerate your development and reduce risk, get in touch with us today to find out how we can help turn your vision into reality.