In today’s world, speed, flexibility, and innovation are not just nice-to-haves—they’re a must. For a Product Manager, who needs to oversee the full lifecycle—from idea to end-of-life—printed electronics (PE) is a new tool with huge potential.
PE is not just future tech—it’s a real answer to modern product challenges: faster prototyping, more personalization, and new ways to create value. In a world where roadmaps change every sprint and backlog depends on live market data, PE lets you test and deliver in an agile way.
This article explains how PE fits into product lifecycle management, what opportunities and risks it brings, and how it connects to tools like Jira, Miro, or Figma. If you’re planning your product from MVP to scale-up, you’re in the right place.
1. Faster Time-to-Market
Printed electronics allows very quick prototyping. Using inkjet or screen printing on flexible films, you can build a working prototype in days—not weeks. This changes how we explore and validate MVPs.
As a PM, this means earlier market entry, faster learning, and less risk. You can test in the real world, not just discuss ideas. One working PE component can give your sprint team clear data for a go/no-go decision.
At LC Elektronik, we provide working PE prototypes in a few days. Fast iterations aren’t a risk—they help you make better decisions.
2. Design Flexibility and Personalization
PE makes it easy to build custom shapes—flexible panels, thin sensors, printed antennas. These can be added to glass, textiles, or plastics.
As a PM, this gives you design freedom. You can reach niche segments without big redesign costs. In wearables, automotive, home appliances, or healthcare, this becomes a market advantage.
Short runs are possible without retooling. You can test designs, colors, and sensor layouts—low-cost MVPs that don’t need big investments.
We at LC Elektronik offer help in design, provide Jira-ready documentation, and work closely with teams to develop flexible forms your UX team will love—before the first A/B test.
3. Durability and Reliability Challenges
PE also brings new duties. Conductive layers must resist moisture, UV, and mechanical wear. PMs need to plan for this early: testing, certification, and choosing the right materials.
Work closely with R&D and quality teams. Use verified suppliers and test PE materials in real conditions. This helps with TCO planning and future service support.
At LC Elektronik, we guide teams in choosing inks, laminates, and mounting techniques. We help reduce project risks and support your reliability targets from the MVP stage.
4. Integration with Traditional Components
PE doesn’t replace classic electronics—it complements it. You still need chips, power, and communication modules.
Your job as PM is to connect mechanical, electronic, and material teams. Plan smart interfaces: for example, use ZIF connectors or conductive adhesives.
Include buffer time in your roadmap—some iterations won’t work the first time. Design for changes, A/B testing, and flexibility across suppliers.
At LC Elektronik, we support this hybrid approach—planning, material choice, assembly, and integration mockups for your technical sprints.
Summary: Managing a Product Lifecycle with PE
Using printed electronics changes how you manage products. The lifecycle becomes faster, more agile, and more customer-focused. For PMs, this brings both more responsibility and more opportunities.
PE is not just a tool—it’s a way of thinking: about speed, flexibility, and great user experience.
With printed electronics:
- You shorten development time and test MVPs more easily
- You personalize products and reach niche users
- You must plan for material durability and reliability
- You connect with traditional components to improve UX and reduce cost
LC Elektronik supports your roadmap—not just with components, but with expertise. Together we’ll build a product lifecycle that works, sells, and stays in your customer’s memory.