MVP Development for a Physical Product

from an engineering concept to a functional device in 4–6 months

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MVP Engineering by Encata Is Right for You If …

You’re launching a physical device but unsure how the market will respond. An MVP with a custom PCB, basic firmware, and 3D-printed enclosure with embedded sensors lets you test your idea without the costs of molds or full-scale production.
You plan to present your project to investors, but it’s not ready for mass production yet. This MVP allows you to demonstrate the core functions of the future device without producing small or large batches.
You want feedback from users at an early stage. An MVP helps you identify strengths and weaknesses of the device without investing in molds or mass manufacturing.

Product development life cycle

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1
Discovery

Initial research phase that defines the problem the product will solve and how it will create value. At this stage, the team assesses current conditions — whether building from scratch or improving an existing system — sets the scope of work, and identifies risks or bottlenecks. The outcome is a validated concept, with impractical ideas discarded and a plan for addressing issues before and after launch.

2
POC

Tangible demonstration that an idea or concept is technically feasible. At this stage, The team relies on components and materials that are simple, readily available, and often temporary, such as basic breadboards, hobby-grade motors. The goal is to test key hypotheses, using minimal resources, and keep attention on the core objective.

3
Prototype

Preliminary model of a future device that already performs its primary function. At this stage, the team employs more reliable and efficient components (e.g., advanced microcontrollers, high-quality motors, precision drive mechanisms). Unlike a PoC, a prototype typically has an enclosure, though it may not yet be finalized.

4
MVP

Functional prototype developed on the basis of engineering calculations, with an optimized BOM, custom-designed electronics, and uniquely engineered mechanical parts. It is intended for field or laboratory testing.

5
Pilot

Limited-scale production and deployment of the finished product to validate it under real operating conditions. At this stage, the team gathers user feedback, monitors performance in the field, and identifies any issues that only appear in day-to-day use. Insights from the pilot phase guide final adjustments before mass production.

1
Discovery

Initial research phase that defines the problem the product will solve and how it will create value. At this stage, the team assesses current conditions — whether building from scratch or improving an existing system — sets the scope of work, and identifies risks or bottlenecks. The outcome is a validated concept, with impractical ideas discarded and a plan for addressing issues before and after launch.

2
POC

Tangible demonstration that an idea or concept is technically feasible. At this stage, The team relies on components and materials that are simple, readily available, and often temporary, such as basic breadboards, hobby-grade motors. The goal is to test key hypotheses, using minimal resources, and keep attention on the core objective.

3
Prototype

Preliminary model of a future device that already performs its primary function. At this stage, the team employs more reliable and efficient components (e.g., advanced microcontrollers, high-quality motors, precision drive mechanisms). Unlike a PoC, a prototype typically has an enclosure, though it may not yet be finalized.

4
MVP

Functional prototype developed on the basis of engineering calculations, with an optimized BOM, custom-designed electronics, and uniquely engineered mechanical parts. It is intended for field or laboratory testing.

5
Pilot

Limited-scale production and deployment of the finished product to validate it under real operating conditions. At this stage, the team gathers user feedback, monitors performance in the field, and identifies any issues that only appear in day-to-day use. Insights from the pilot phase guide final adjustments before mass production.

How EnCata Builds MVPs

Core function and advantage

We start by defining the core purpose of your product, whether it measures, moves, converts, or controls. Then we run competitive analysis and benchmarking to see where we can gain advantages in accuracy, speed, energy efficiency, or cost.
An EnCata MVP delivers the device’s core function without extra features, proving its competitive edge.

Appearance and testing

We build an MVP ready for demonstration and functional testing, with an enclosure that protects electronics and matches required dimensions. We ensure it passes essential tests such as vibration, overheating, and dust/moisture protection (IP54/IP65). Your MVP will work like an engineered product – no duct tape, Arduino boards, or firmware shortcuts.

BOM cost & DFM focus

We design MVPs with future production in mind. Instead of temporary Arduino-based solutions, we use custom PCB design and components chosen for supply chain and cost optimization. We develop parts so they can be easily converted from 3D printing to injection molding.
All features in the MVP are planned with BOM and DFM considerations to ease the transition to mass production.

Want to Build MVP With Us?

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150 MVPs Delivered. 4–6 Months per Project – from Medical Devices to IoT Systems

We develop as one integrated team – fewer calls and no shifting responsibility between contractors
We test and refine each MVP – MVP will be ready for user trials and feedback sessions before launch
We both design and manufacture in-house – so you never need to search for or manage outside production partners

Value for Your Business

01.

Full-spectrum expertise

We act as your single partner and remove the need to work with multiple freelancers or companies. If needed, we form a micro-team of 2–3 engineers and coordinate all aspects of their work for you.

02.

Self-driven team

We handle the work in a way that eliminates the need for you to visit factories or spend months away from home. Our 7+ years of experience include projects for clients in the USA, Singapore, France, Oman, and South Korea.

03.

Stable project progress

We keep the work moving even when individual engineers take sick leave, vacations, or change priorities. Our 35+ engineers operate both in offices and on production sites, ensuring continuity at every stage.

04.

Safer product start

We eliminate the need for you to place a large order or pay for molds and other production equipment. Our minimum order starts from just one unit, helping you launch without heavy upfront investment.

05.

OEM production kit

We give you a complete package: BOM, CAD files, PCB schematic and layout, firmware, assembly instructions, and recommendations for serial manufacturing. This shortens the time you spend coordinating with suppliers.

06.

Post-launch support

We help after the product launch with certification, embedded software updates, and troubleshooting during operation. We also support adapting the product to specific production requirements.

Healthcare

Custom Brain Cooling Device

EnCata developed a dual-circuit brain cooling system for therapeutic use in stroke rehabilitation, neurotrauma, and psychiatric care. The system includes a portable cooling control unit and a head-cooling helmet.
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Smart Soil Irrigation System Development

EnCata helped a startup develop a smart soil irrigation system from concept to MVP. The system includes custom electronics, BLE, LoRaWAN, and solar-powered modules for real-time soil monitoring and control. Built and tested in just 8 months.
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Self-managed cold electronic storage for digital assets custody

EnCata developed a custom electronic storage vault for a fintech customer, integrating over 8,194 Spark™ wallets. The vault enables secure storage and blockchain-controlled transactions. We delivered enclosure design, DFM, and a functional prototype.
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FAQ

At EnCata, what kinds of contracts do you use? Is it a fixed-term or an agile contract?
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Patent or Develop first?
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