18: No Cool Cheap Screwdrivers

Thoroughly Considered · 17 Sept 2016 · 46m · Episode 18

What this episode covers

Tom Gerhardt and Dan Provost of Studio Neat discuss the launch of their new product, The Material Dock, an adjustable charging stand for iPhones and Apple Watches made from walnut and molded cork. They detail the manufacturing challenges, including supplier failures and a lightning strike on their local woodshop, and explain design decisions such as including a screwdriver and using 3D printed internal parts. The episode also covers the creation of a viral marketing video using post-Steve Jobs keynote footage and their strategy for selling directly to consumers.

Mentioned

Companies
Studio Neat, Relay FM
Products
The Material Dock, Glyph
Also
Product Hunt, Alibaba, Austin Mann

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