Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Hi,

I am currently building a surveillance camera system which basically just uses a camera, a weather proof enclosure, and a rechargeable battery. There`s also a celluar modem aspect to it. What I am concerned about is how to describe it as a manufactured product. Does this make sense? I am planning to market my company as an Integrator, Engineering, and Manufacturing outfit.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike

I am planning to market my company as an Integrator, Engineering, and Manufacturing outfit.

That`s a woozie! That`s a big bite to take in all at once.  Each one of those is a separate business in itself.

I think Integrator will be the easiest to start with. And probably the first step you should do. Get some income going.  Get some clients going.

Then use part of the income in your Integration business for R&D expenses to get into Engineering and design.  Feedback from the field will be helpful in your engineering efforts.

Outsource manufacturing to other companies, then later on bring it in-house if you want to be a manufacturer. 

You can outsource subassemblies to other companies, PCB manufacturing, PCB assembly, chassis metalwork, plastic case, etc.  and then do the final product assembly and testing in-house.

Be prepared for long hours, and lots of $$$ investment in this venture.

What I am concerned about is how to describe it as a manufactured product

Describe it as how it solves a particular customer problem? Does it address any existing  problem at all?

I`m thinking there are a lot of other models out there that don`t call the final "assembly" a manufactured product.

Think of all the commercials for companies that explain the system, explain the benefits, and highlight as a selling benefit that they`re using high-quality, brand-name components.

Those companies are selling the expertise (consultants) to help the customer with a needs assessment, consultation, contract bid, installation, and support.

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The older we get, the more excuses we make for not chasing after our dreams. But truth is, goals are attainable at any age.

Thanks everyone for taking the time to respond to my questions. I`ve been working on a solar powered prototype for one of the camera units and haven`t had time to post. It`s looking good so far! Next step is to hook up the high speed cell modem, install it in a remote location and test it.

Mike

Just a thought when you are ready to market the solar powered camera, many companies build automatic gate operator that run on solar power.  Elite gate operators being one of the main companies that comes to mind.  You might want to partner with them to provide a solar powered camera to go with their solar powered gate operator.  They also have a neat transmitter system that they could tie your camera into for remote access gates.  Drop me a line if you need more information.  I con be reached at culshaw@spcfreelance.com.


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The older we get, the more excuses we make for not chasing after our dreams. But truth is, goals are attainable at any age.

nevadascul,

I am sending you an e-mail regarding my solar powered IP camera.

Thanks,

Mike