James Proud, founder of Config, wishes he had this software when he was running his previous startup, Hello, a sleep tracker company. In an interview with TechCrunch, Proud revealed that Config would have been a lifesaver for his team and had a massive positive impact on their operations.
What is Config?
Config is a platform that integrates different elements of the hardware development process, including CAD files, supply chain documents like bills of material, and procurement tracking. This integration enables hardware teams to collaborate more efficiently with each other and external vendors like suppliers and manufacturers.
Founding Story
James Proud founded Config in 2019 after his experience at Hello, where he spent several years developing a sleep tracker device. During this time, he encountered numerous challenges related to the hardware development process, including inefficient communication between teams and suppliers. After selling Hello, Proud realized that there was a need for a platform that could streamline these processes.
Key Features
Config’s key features include:
- Integration of CAD files: Config allows users to upload and manage CAD files from various design tools.
- Supply chain management: The platform enables teams to track the status of orders, shipments, and deliveries in real-time.
- Collaboration tools: Config provides a centralized hub for communication between teams and external vendors.
- Procurement tracking: Users can monitor procurement activities, including purchase orders, invoices, and payments.
Impact on Clients
Proud shared that Config has made a significant impact on the operations of its clients, particularly Mill and Humane. With Config, these companies have been able to work more efficiently with outside partners and reduce communication bottlenecks.
For example, Humane onboarded their overseas manufacturer onto Config, enabling them to work closely together as if they were also engineers at Humane. This has resulted in improved collaboration, reduced errors, and increased productivity.
Growth Strategy
As Config grows, Proud plans to focus less on the types of products it helps teams build and more on the sizes of the teams it serves. He believes that supporting larger teams requires different approaches and features than those needed for smaller teams.
Proud mentioned that Config has been successful in bringing near-whole companies onto its platform but will soon start working with individual product lines before expanding across entire organizations.
Fundraising
Config decided against raising large sums at high valuations during the fundraising craze of 2021-2022. Instead, the startup kept a small team and focused on solving the problems their customers face on a daily basis.
The recent funding will provide Config with ample runway to continue developing its platform and generating revenue from clients.
Conclusion
Config is an innovative solution for hardware development teams struggling with communication, collaboration, and supply chain management. By integrating various aspects of the hardware development process, Config has been able to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and increase productivity.
With a strong growth strategy in place, Config is well-positioned to become a leading platform for hardware startups and established companies alike.
