The Six-Step Approach

Over the past 20 years, IFN has assembled a six-step approach to new product development that incorporates our philosophy of integrated project management. From Step One through Step Six we integrate the requirements of your total business system with the needs of your target consumer to develop products that win in the marketplace.

Step 1 Idea Generation and Opportunity Identification We work with you to identify potential areas of opportunity whether they are new ideas, technologies or platforms. We also assess the relative attractiveness of each opportunity with respect to industry trends, consumer relevance and costing.

Step Two Concept and Protocept Generation With your input, concepts and protocepts are created to support initial consumer research. Tangible protocepts (a "chef's rendition" of the concept) enable consumers to actually see and taste your ideas.

Step Three Prototype Development and Feasibility Analysis While Step Two creates a protocept (a "chef's rendition" of the concept), the next step is to prepare a commercially feasible prototype, using industrial ingredients and equipment, which is more representative of the final form. At this point product attributes and costing are determined. Prototype samples are also generated at this point. They are a key element in any product development program. It is critical to have product samples available for management review, interdepartmental review and consumer acceptance testing.

Step Four Product Scale-Up and Sensory Analysis Through benchmarking procedures initiated early on in development, IFN ensures that the desired quality is achieved throughout process scale-up. Product manufactured at pilot scale is used for consumer testing. Consumer feedback is used to guide final process and product refinement.

Step Five Shelf-Life Testing and Specification Development To verify that quality, stability and safety remain constant throughout the life of the product, IFN conducts either full-term or accelerated shelf-life testing. Before commercialization can begin, specifications for all raw materials, final formulations, test methods, and processes need to be finalized. These specifications are developed by working closely with your suppliers and manufacturers, to ensure your commercial product is consistent with formerly established product targets.

Step Six Plant Testing and Commercialization Our product development staff is ready to work with you throughout the commercialization process. Plant start ups are fully supported to ensure test methods, processes and quality levels are successfully transferred from pilot to commercial scale. Furthermore, we support you after the launch, when commercial manufacturing is in full swing, making sure the product is sound through storage and distribution, all the way to the consumer.