When it comes to medical device manufacturing, oftentimes, the focus is put on the clinical application, procedure, or unique technology within the device. As a result, other critically important aspects can sometimes become secondary considerations. This can lead to the need to make revisions later in the product development lifecycle, increasing costs and the time to market.

With this in mind, it’s important to collaborate with supply chain partners and contract manufacturers to ensure no aspect or step is neglected. Further, doing so as early as possible in the development process helps to eliminate conflicts between materials, manufacturing steps, or other aspects of the device’s fabrication. For example, bringing a coating expert into the equation can confirm alignment between the substrate and the material being coated.

To better understand other advantages of working with a coating supplier early in a device development process, a pair of representatives from ISURTEC addressed a number of questions. In the following Q&A, Eric Guire, Chief Innovation Officer, and Kristin Taton, Chief Scientific Officer, speak on the benefits of early collaboration and several aspects to keep in mind when doing so.