2. P lastics W est M idlands

3. ERDF Project purpose The project was designed to give assistance to the plastics industry in the West Midlands region of the UK (objective2). The intent was to give technical assistance to companies wishing to adopt new plastic materials and technologies

4. THE REALITY The time lag between writing the project and the team working effectively meant the economic climate had changed. The companies needed to innovate to survive. Innovation in a buzz word in a chaotic idea of how to bring new products to market. No robust process existed for innovation in most companies.

5. What we did Undertake a design review Check market analysis and sales predictions Check make or buy decision Check competency and capacity within the company

6. What we did – (continued) Build rapid a prototype if necessary Review design Build pre production products Assist in quotations for tooling

7. What we did – (continued) Assist in material selection Assist in price for bought in (or benchmark price) Assist in factory training for the new product

8. What we did – long term view Assist in building an understood new product introduction process Helping companies to help themselves within a process to enable planning and budgeting towards success.

9. Our Lessons The project needed to adapt to keep up with the changing needs of businesses. Our team did not have all the skills needed to undertake the full scope of work (the companies) needed. Other projects can support the company in a coordinated way if good working links are made.

10. CONTACT Malcolm Harold (Project Manager) Plastics West Midlands Warwick Manufacturing Group University of Warwick Coventry CV4 7AL Tel +44 2476 572571 Email malcolm.harold@warwick.ac.uk