Preparations

There are no universal rules for what will work or won’t in R&D within this setting. However, one principle stands out: Start – and start practically. Success often begins with taking small, actionable steps to test ideas and build knowledge.

R&D in our field is inherently multidisciplinary, requiring simultaneous attention to several key areas. It requires balancing hands-on experimentation with strategic oversight. Teams need to:

• Validate materials and processes: Conduct tests to confirm the material’s properties, their stability over time, and determine suitable processing methods.
• Define and develop products: Translate processed materials into prototypes or final products.
• Engage with the market: Collaborate with potential customers to gauge interest and refine product concepts based on feedback.

This multiple focus means team members must be adaptable, working directly with materials and tools while also managing theoretical research and customer engagement.