Introduction: Choosing a Tech Partner Is a Process, Not Just a Decision.
Printed electronics (PE) projects are complex. They require more than a “deliver/not deliver” mindset. As a PM or product designer, you’re not just responsible for the final result—but for how well your team and the supplier work together, often over months. Testing the technology is important—but testing the supplier’s style, communication, flexibility, and response to change matters just as much.
1. Audits – Remote or On-Site?
A remote audit is a good starting point. A Teams call, some documentation, photos of the production floor, or a short video can tell you if the supplier knows their stuff.
On-site audits show more—but aren’t always necessary right away. At LC Elektronik, we welcome visits but don’t “polish the floor” for show. Real partnership starts with honesty—even if it’s uncomfortable.
During an audit, what matters is not just the machines, but how people respond to questions. Can they admit when they don’t know something? That tells you how they’ll act when things go off plan.
A good audit is also a learning moment—you get to view your project from the production side. This often gives more value than an ISO checklist.
2. Prototyping and Testing – Try Before You Commit
Testing shows more than words. Don’t just ask, “Can you do this?” Ask, “What can we test together?”
Early samples (e.g. different inks, thicknesses, or base films) give real data—not just catalog specs. These tests can feed your Jira, Miro, or validation reports.
We offer quick test runs (manual, semi-auto, or roll-to-roll) at LC Elektronik. We also provide resistance data and durability tests and often help choose the best version. We don’t just show the result—we show the process.
3. Certifications and Standards – Necessary but Not Enough
Yes, ISO or IPC certificates are important. They show that a company has structured processes and passes audits, but they don’t show how a supplier will handle real-world problems.
The key is how they react to change. Can they process a new DXF file smoothly? Is technical support helpful or just forwarding messages?
At LC Elektronik, we go beyond checklists. We focus on how feedback flows, how teams iterate, and how trust is built through real cooperation.
4. Communication, Documentation, Response Time
Good communication builds trust. A message like “I’ll get back to you by 4 p.m.” shows reliability—even if they don’t have the answer yet.
Tech docs aren’t brochures—they’re work tools. Ask: is the file clear for your design team? Can you use it in Jira? Are layers clearly explained?
A great supplier doesn’t just wait—they suggest improvements. At LC Elektronik, we actively look for better solutions and notify you if we find any.
5. Transparentność i podejście do zmian jako wymóg konieczny podczas ewaluacji dostawców technologii druku
Zmiana w pliku DXF nie powinna być punktem zapalnym – powinna uruchamiać nową wersję wyceny i proces rewizji, nie falę stresu. Dobry partner nie pyta „dlaczego znowu?”, tylko mówi: „otrzymaliśmy aktualizację – nowa kalkulacja będzie dziś do końca dnia”. To znak, że współpraca oparta jest na procesie, nie emocjach.
Produkcja to miejsce, gdzie wychodzą błędy – i gdzie można je szybko wychwycić. Ważne, by ktoś z hali potrafił zgłosić niezgodność, zanim zostanie zalana partia. Jeszcze ważniejsze – by ta informacja szybko trafiła do PM-a lub konstruktora. Jeśli czekasz tydzień na reakcję – to nie partner, tylko wykonawca z opóźnionym odruchem. Odrzuć taką firmę już na etapie ewaluacji dostawców technologii druku – tutaj nie ma miejsca na takie problemy komunikacyjne.
W LC Elektronik stawiamy na transparentność. Pracujemy na wspólnych tablicach Miro, z aktualizacjami mailowymi i jasnym opisem każdej zmiany. Wszystkie iteracje dokumentujemy, dzięki czemu Ty – jako PM – widzisz historię decyzji, nie tylko finalny plik. I możesz wrócić krok wstecz, jeśli zajdzie taka potrzeba.
5. Transparency and Change Management
A change in the DXF file should not cause stress. It should trigger a version update, not panic.
Good partners don’t ask “Why again?”—they say, “Got it, new quote by end of day.” That’s a sign of process-driven work.
At LC Elektronik, we use shared Miro boards, update logs, and transparent documentation. You can always see the decision history—not just the final file.
Summary
Choosing a PE supplier isn’t just a transaction—it’s a journey through prototyping, testing, and iteration. Especially in agile environments, where the roadmap changes faster than the product spec, you need a team that understands the “why” behind your changes.
At LC Elektronik, we aim to implement, not just deliver. We provide components, yes—but also version control, project updates, and mid-sprint support.
As a PM, here’s what you can do now:
- Start a real conversation with your supplier about how they work
- Check if you have a plan for A/B testing before ordering
- Ask if your current supplier supports iteration—or just completes tasks
- Review if your documents support your Jira, Miro, or PLM process
- Ask yourself: do I need a supplier—or a partner for tough sprints?