Notice Board
The Evolution of Locksmithing Tools : From Concept to Innovation
» AFTER THE LAUNCH OF OUR NEW Door and Window Kits , the positive feedback from locksmiths was immediate and overwhelming . Many praised the products , particularly after using them to tackle jobs they once dreaded . However , as with any innovative offering , some locksmiths quickly returned with insightful questions and requests , challenging us to think even further outside the box . Here are just a few of the queries we received :
• Can you create a solution for composite doors ?
• Can you design a tool for Saracen or Maco reverse shootbolts ?
• How about addressing the cams located in the corners of window sashes that are difficult to reach ?
• What about the deep mechanisms found in thicker door sections ?
• How can we handle totally jammed and failed mechanisms on uPVC doors and windows ?
• Could you develop a deeper Scotia guard for thicker , squarer sections ?
These were just a few of the many thoughtful suggestions from locksmiths eager to see further innovation in the field . However , what many of them don ’ t realise is the extensive development process that goes into creating a new product .
The Development Journey : From Problem to Creation
Developing a new locksmithing tool is no simple task . While locksmiths may not always need to consider the complexities of product design , the process can take anywhere from six to 12 months or even longer . It ’ s easy for ideas to be forgotten , simply because the development cycle takes so long . But that ’ s the nature of innovation — it requires time , patience and a willingness to refine ideas continually .
The journey begins with brainstorming , sketching , and re-drawing concepts . Many
© Adrian Waine of ‘ Photography for Industry ’ © Adrian Waine of ‘ Photography for Industry ’
ideas are discarded , but some eventually evolve into workable prototypes . These prototypes then go through rigorous testing , often requiring multiple rounds of adjustments before a tool is deemed fit for the market . Sometimes ideas may not work and a rethink may be needed .
At the heart of this process is the collaboration between our product development team , including Paul Batty , who is responsible for field testing and refining tools in the field . The real excitement comes when Paul sends a message or video , showing how a new tool performs during an actual job . That ’ s when we know we ’ re on the right track .
Discovering the “ Lightbulb Moment ”
One day , while searching in my garage for an old Black and Decker powered file , I found a power tool I had completely forgotten about . Inspired by this unexpected find , I immediately shared a photo with Paul Batty , suggesting that it could be worth testing in the workshop .
Within two days , Paul , along with Don , our technical expert , began experimenting with the tool . The results
were nothing short of impressive . We realised we had found something with tremendous potential . It was one of those rare “ lightbulb moments ” in product development — an idea that could change the game for locksmiths .
However , as with most breakthroughs , there was a catch . While the tool itself was promising , the available accessories didn ’ t suit the specific needs of locksmiths . This was a problem we were determined to solve . I contacted a factory to discuss the possibility of creating custom accessories for the tool , only to be told they didn ’ t have the necessary tooling to produce them .
Without hesitation , I asked if they could create the required tooling and they agreed to quote us for the work . This was the beginning of a new chapter in tool innovation for locksmiths .
Overcoming Challenges in Product Development
The process of developing new products and tools is rarely straightforward . It ’ s not just about designing something that works ; it ’ s about designing something that works better than anything else out there . That means overcoming challenges
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DECEMBER 2024
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