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Ditch the Napkin Sketch: Why DFM (Design for Manufacturing) Matters
This DFM playbook shows design studios, Western brands, and product creators how to choose ODM/OEM/CM, hand factories a bulletproof brief, avoid the 1–10–100 cost trap, and build a BOM that protects margin. Realistic timelines, QC checkpoints, packaging + logistics from day one. Fewer surprises. Faster cycles.

Sal Orozco
5 min read


MOQ vs Unit Price: When “More” Costs Less
Paying more per unit but cutting MOQ can save money. This quick playbook shows how to compare landed cost, protect cash flow, reduce inventory risk, and reorder faster. Learn when to trade price for flexibility and use small batches, QA/QC gates, and early demand signals to scale winners.

Sal Orozco
2 min read


Why Your Factory Quotes Keep Rising — And How to Stop It
Getting a “too good to be true” price on Alibaba—only to watch it climb with every email? You’re not alone. Discover why supplier quotes rise after you clarify specs, the hidden pitfalls of chasing the cheapest bid, and how to lock in fair pricing from the start. Learn the sourcing strategy pros use to avoid costly surprises and get the product—and quality—you actually want.

Sal Orozco
3 min read


Tariff Engineering: How Big Brands Quietly Dodge the Tariff Drama
Big brands have used tariff engineering for decades to cut import costs—legally. From Apple Watches to sugar with molasses, discover how small changes in materials, design, or classification can slash duties by 30%+. Learn how your brand can do the same.

Sal Orozco
4 min read


The Incoterms Cheat Sheet: A Short Guide
Confused by EXW, FOB, or DDP? You’re not alone. Incoterms can make or break your margins—and your sanity. This no-fluff guide breaks down who’s responsible for what in global shipping, with real-world examples and zero legal jargon. Whether you're a startup or scaling brand, this is your cheat sheet to avoid costly surprises, choose smarter terms, and actually understand what you’re signing.

Sal Orozco
3 min read


Customs Compliance Audit: A Short Guide
Think customs compliance is just paperwork? Think again. One wrong HS code or undervalued invoice and you're on the hook for penalties, audits, and delays. This no-BS guide breaks down what actually triggers audits, the rookie mistakes importers make, and how to build a bulletproof process before customs comes knocking. Stay audit-ready, protect your margin, and own your supply chain.

Sal Orozco
3 min read


The Factory Tour: The Tell of GREAT Manufacturers
Struggling to find the right manufacturing partner? Learn the one question top importers use to instantly reveal if a factory truly values quality. This short guide breaks down how a factory’s QA process can expose whether they’re a reliable partner—or a risky bet. If you’re sourcing overseas, this is the telltale sign you can’t afford to miss. A must-read for product developers, supply chain pros, and brand owners.

Sal Orozco
2 min read


The Kaizen Framework: A Practical Guide to Continuous Improvement
A short guide to Kaizen methodology: Learn how this Japanese continuous improvement framework drives operational excellence & business

Sal Orozco
2 min read


A Short Guide to Lean Product Design Methodology
Learn how Lean Product Design methodology drives innovation via customer-focused development, waste elimination, and continuous improvement

Sal Orozco
2 min read


The Penalty Paradox: How Punishing Suppliers Can Hurt Your Business
Explore why punitive contracts with suppliers can backfire, hindering innovation and quality. Learn how fostering partnerships leads to bett

Sal Orozco
4 min read


Chinese New Year: When the Dragon Hibernates — Keep Your Business Flame Alive
Supply chain management during Chinese New Year: Strategies for Western businesses to navigate production disruptions.

Sal Orozco
10 min read


8 Insights Every Industrial Designer Should Know
Learn key insights on Design for Manufacturing (DFM) to optimize product design, enhance manufacturability, and reduce risks.

Sal Orozco
5 min read


Taming the Dragon of Asian Manufacturing
Learn how to streamline product design and manufacturing in Asia through a physical presence.

Sal Orozco
4 min read
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