AVA Labs
Development guide

How to prepare for your first development call

A few clear notes can make the conversation much more useful. You do not need a polished pitch deck or a finished specification.

  1. Describe the problem and who has it.

    Explain who will use the product, what they need to accomplish, and how they handle that task today. A concrete example is more useful than a long feature list.

  2. Show where the project stands.

    Gather any sketches, CAD, photos, prototype videos, schematics, test results, or supplier feedback you already have. Note what works, what fails, and what has not been tested. An early idea is a valid starting point; bring what exists.

  3. Choose the question you most need answered.

    You may need to establish feasibility, solve a technical problem, build a demonstration, or prepare for manufacturing. Identify the next decision and what evidence would help you make it.

  4. Outline your budget and timing.

    Share the budget range available for the next stage and any important dates. Explain what drives each deadline, such as a customer demonstration, funding milestone, or production need. If you do not know the budget yet, say so.

  5. List the constraints that could shape the design.

    Include known requirements for size, power, operating conditions, connectivity, target cost, or production quantity. Mention safety, certification, grant, or institutional requirements that may affect the work. Unknowns are useful to identify too.

  6. Bring your questions and the right people.

    Write down the questions you want to cover. Consider including the person who understands the technical work and anyone responsible for scope or budget decisions. Be clear about which decisions you can make and which need further review.

For the initial inquiry, a high-level description is enough. Before sharing confidential files or restricted research, flag any disclosure requirements so an appropriate sharing arrangement can be agreed.

Already submitted your inquiry? Keep these notes for the conversation and wait for Randy's reply. Submitting the form does not book a call; there is no need to submit it again.