Case Study - Engineering Assessment
For ApaceWave Technologies, performed vendor assessment and technical due diligence on converter subsystem for new WiMax solution.
Result: enabled client to assess feasibility and risk of outsourcing, making educated procurement decision.
ApaceWave Technologies was developing a new WiMax chip which required a high performance data-converter subsystem. To accelerate schedule and reduce implementation risk, ApaceWave considered outsourcing this crucial subsystem to an external vendor. ApaceWave engaged us to perform a comprehensive engineering assessment to see whether the vendor's solution was a suitable fit. They were particularly interested to learn the strengths, weaknesses, issues and risks of the converter subsystem in question.
What we did
It was agreed to set up an on-site architecture and design review of the subsystem, face-to-face with the vendor's engineering team. First, we carried out an engineering analysis of the subsystem based on technical documentation provided by the vendor.
Then, as preparation for the on-site visit, we performed a comprehensive publication and patent research which allowed us to benchmark the vendor's offering with current "state of the art" solutions. We furthermore analyzed any relevant patents and technical papers published by the vendor's engineering team.
We then visited the vendor's location in Europe to review the subsystem with its engineering team, walking through each of the implementation details. The direct interaction with the design engineers gave great insights and brought to light a set of important follow up questions. We then audited the vendor's capabilities in terms of technical experience for the task at hand and looked at the design procedures and practices being used. Finally we assessed the availability of skilled engineers and technical equipment as needed for the project.
Our task was concluded by walking ApaceWave management through a detailed written report on feasibility, technical and schedule risk, together with recommendations on how to address any issues found.
The result
Our independent analysis enabled ApaceWave to make an educated procurement decision by assessing the feasibility and risks of outsourcing their new WiMax AFE subsystem to an external vendor.
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