The Advantages and Challenges of Manufacturing in China with Case Engelen of Titoma
Case Engelen, founder of Titoma, a manufacturing and design firm in Taiwan, discusses the realities of bringing electronic hardware to market via Asian manufacturing. He explains why startups must optimize designs for specific factories rather than seeking a universal DFM, and highlights the critical importance of component availability, lead times, and leveraging local supplier ecosystems in China and Taiwan. Engelen also advises entrepreneurs to prioritize sales validation and realistic factory prioritization over pure engineering perfection.