From concept to final product I find joy in each step of the design process. One of my favorite parts of the process is the design of the tech pack. Though at times tech pack design may be tedious and seem to be a less important step in the process, tech packs are in fact invaluable as we help clients move into production. It is the constant bridge between us and the manufacturer.
So what is a tech pack exactly? A tech pack is essentially an instruction manual on how to manufacture a product. It should include detailed technical drawings, exact dimensions, materials, colors, sizing, production numbers, notions and any other information one may need to replicate your design. This is all neatly packaged together and can be sent to manufacturers for more accurate quotes on sourcing. It can be sent to multiple manufacturers for samples which is a nice trial run before committing to full on production. Samples are a crucial step that may show shortcomings in your tech pack or your overall design. Finally your tech pack will be used throughout the manufacturing process, it will remain the constant guide for quality assurance no matter if you are making one hundred or one million pieces.
A well designed tech pack will reduce mistakes and improve communication, especially when there may be a language, time or culture barrier as we often use overseas manufacturers. The phrase “A picture is worth a thousand words” could not ring more true when talking about tech packs. The more detail I can pour into a tech pack the better prepared the manufacturer will be to replicate our design to our exact specifications. Manufacturers will be able to refer to a tech pack throughout the production process ensuring all details are included and nothing is lost or misinterpreted as it changes hands.
All of these benefits of a well designed tech pack lead to saving time and money by keeping sampling lead times as short as possible and avoiding mistakes. Few things excite me as much as sending off a tech pack and then receiving the sample exactly as I had outlined.
I cannot stress enough how essential a good tech pack is. It will save you time, money and numerous headaches. So do yourself a big favor, make the early investment in a quality techpack and I promise you’ll thank me later!
Ethan Powell – Designer