Much of our engineering consultancy work includes a solution specification process which is often overlooked in the product development lifecycle and yet it is one of the most important activities needed to ensure that the correct solution is developed and the right development path taken. It is common for design houses to take a provided specification and develop to that. This is great but in our experience we have found that even the seemingly tightest of specifications will contain ambiguities and omissions leading to potential errors or weaknesses in a design or just meaning that real customer opportunities are missed through lack of foresight. At Microsynthesis we take a great deal of care and follow formal procedures at this crucial stage in the development process. We offer this as a service in its own right because there is a lot of skill and experience needed in getting it right.

The methods we use in conducting the solution specification process will vary according to the complexity and nature of the task. Essentially it is about identifying the problem that needs solving, capturing and analysing the requirements of each stakeholder and specifying accurately a solution that is fully pertinent. Invariably, as well as conducting in-depth discussions with our clients the problem and proposed solution, we will visit the intended use environment, talk to managers and supervisors in those sites and, very importantly, talk to the potential end-users of the product to really understand the issues. This way we can be sure that our outputs are entirely suited to our customers, their customers and to the intended use. We can also be sure that the solution is absolutely suitable for solving the problem and provides added value where appropriate.