Bringing an IoT product to market has always been a complex challenge. From hardware prototyping to software integration, testing, and regulatory approvals, the process demands close collaboration between engineers, manufacturers, and clients. The COVID-19 pandemic and the necessity for social distancing has introduced a new layer of complexity, forcing companies to rethink their workflows.
In a recent conversation with our friends and partners over at RIoT, I had the opportunity to share how our team at Device Solutions has adapted to keep projects moving forward, all while making sure our team and partners stay safe.
Maintaining Agile Development in a Remote Environment
One of the biggest adjustments has been the shift to remote work for much of the development team. While software engineers have been able to maintain efficiency using collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, hardware teams have had to rethink their hands-on approach. At Device Solutions, we have worked hard to increase virtual check-ins, use digital whiteboarding tools, and employ video walkthroughs of prototypes to simulate in-person debugging sessions.
Hands-on Prototyping Without Being Hands-On
When designing IoT devices, having a prototype in hand is invaluable. With limited access to lab spaces, we’ve had to get creative. We’ve increased our use of 3D printing to iterate faster, shipped test units directly to team members' homes, and even distributed components like beacons to remote engineers to continue field testing. While these solutions are not perfect replacements for a fully equipped lab, they’ve allowed us to keep product development moving.
Overcoming Supply Chain Disruptions
Component shortages have been a major hurdle with certain electronics becoming nearly impossible to source. To mitigate these issues, we’ve worked closely with suppliers to forecast demand further in advance and have explored alternative components where possible. In some cases, we’ve even redesigned products to be more flexible in terms of available parts.
Rethinking Testing and Regulatory Approvals
Typically, regulatory compliance testing involves in-person oversight, but with travel restrictions, labs have adapted by offering virtual witnessing of tests. This has required additional preparation, such as building in remote access to devices for debugging and running pre-compliance checks to avoid costly delays. At Device Solutions, we’ve embraced these changes, ensuring that our products meet safety and compliance standards without unnecessary delays.
Strengthening Customer Collaboration
Perhaps the most surprising outcome of this shift has been the strengthening of our relationships with customers. With everyone adapting to new workflows, we’ve seen more transparency and deeper engagement in virtual meetings. In some cases, our clients have involved their entire teams—including suppliers and external stakeholders—in discussions, leading to faster decision-making and a more cohesive approach to product development.
Looking Ahead
The pandemic forced rapid innovation in the way we develop IoT products, and while some aspects of in-person collaboration will return, many of these new approaches are here to stay. Remote work has proven viable for many engineering roles, virtual compliance testing has streamlined approval processes, and companies have learned to be more resilient in handling supply chain issues.
At Device Solutions, we are continuing to refine our strategies to adapt to this evolving landscape. The key takeaway? Flexibility, communication, and creative problem-solving are more critical than ever in bringing new IoT products to market efficiently and successfully—even in a socially distanced world.
Watch the Whole Conversation Here
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Chris Lamb is the Chief Technology Officer at Device Solutions, a North Carolina-based IoT engineering company specializing in wireless technology and sensor applications. The company's Cellio platform provides end-to-end IoT solutions for agriculture, industry, and environmental monitoring.