FAQ: Project Work with EWI
Do I have to be a member to do project work with EWI?
You don’t have to be a member to work with us, but membership has many advantages. EWI members receive a discount on project work, and are entitled to free Design Reviews, Technical Inquiries, Literature Searches, and a wealth of other great benefits
How do we get started on a project?
Contact me and we’ll determine whether to hold a conference call or Design Review in order to further discuss your challenges with the appropriate subject matter experts here at Buffalo Manufacturing Works or our facility in Columbus.
How do we assess project feasibility?
We assess feasibility by constructing a set of proof of principle experiments, designed to evaluate alternative solutions to joining, materials selection, joint design, or inspection. Such experiments are focused isolating and then finding solutions to the critical technical challenges quickly so the product and process development can proceed to the next stages with reduced technical risk.
How do you determine the length/scope of the project?
We typically develop a Statement of Work (SOW) for our clients’ initial review. After discussion, we will generate a Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) with our proposed scope, estimated pricing and project duration as a check point to make sure we are aligned with our clients’ needs from both a technical and business case perspective. We then convert the ROM into a formal proposal. After acceptance of the proposal and terms, we schedule and initiate the project. The time it takes to complete a job depends on the size and complexity of the project, our current backlog, and the receipt of any required materials.
Can I visit EWI and observe any of the work?
We encourage clients to visit our facilities and witness activities on their programs. We are happy to include this in the project scope if there’s interest in on-site visits during the course of the project. The project’s Principal Investigator, Project Manager, or your EWI business development manager can always help you coordinate a visit.
How does EWI handle confidentiality?
Confidentiality at EWI is of utmost importance, and a crucial component for our long term success. Integrity is one of our core values, and a vital part of our relationship with our members and the hundreds of confidential projects they trust us to perform every year. For additional assurance, we are happy to and routinely execute non-disclosure agreements to enable open discussion with our clients.