The development of the industrial ecosystem encompasses the entire journey from innovative product design to robust, large-scale manufacturing. At its core, this process includes transitioning from Fabless operations—where a company focuses solely on design and outsources manufacturing—to ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) structuring, where design and manufacturing capabilities are integrated to deliver complete, market-ready solutions.

Fabless companies specialize in product concept, architecture, and design, particularly in microelectronics and semiconductors, while relying on specialized manufacturers (foundries) for production. This model allows for leaner operations and faster innovation cycles, but limits control over manufacturing processes and supply chains.

ODM (Original Design Manufacturer), on the other hand, combines both product design and manufacturing under one roof. In this model, the same organization is responsible for designing, prototyping, manufacturing, and often supporting post-production improvements, delivering products that clients can sell under their own brands. ODM solutions offer greater flexibility, faster go-to-market, and more tailored end-products.

The global market is rapidly evolving, demanding more integrated and customizable solutions with shorter lead times and increased quality. Companies moving “from Fabless operations to ODM structuring” gain a competitive edge by controlling more stages of the value chain, ensuring greater product differentiation and speed.

At the Wernher von Braun Advanced Research Center, we are experts in building and supporting every stage of this industrial ecosystem. Our team excels in:

• Design: Creating innovative products, from electronics and chipsets to complete systems.

• Component Selection & Supplier Qualification: Identifying the optimal components and vetted suppliers to ensure reliability and high performance.

• Prototyping & Testing: Building and thoroughly testing prototypes to validate designs before scaling to mass production.

• Manufacturing Support: Structuring and supporting the transition to ODM operations, including production automation and quality assurance.

• Custom Equipment: Developing specialized machinery to automate and optimize production processes, ensuring consistency and efficiency.

• Custom Chip Design: Offering expertise in designing bespoke chips for specialized market needs, adding value to industrial, logistics, and business applications.

Projects of this kind are suitable for companies and organizations that seek to innovate, customize offerings, scale production, reduce time-to-market, and gain independence from third-party manufacturers. This approach benefits startups launching disruptive products, established companies looking to regain control of their supply chains, and industrial players requiring highly specialized, reliable, and scalable solutions.

We have delivered successful cases and research projects for a variety of industrial and logistics markets, supporting clients from concept and requirements gathering through mass production. Our team of experienced specialists brings proven expertise and a strong track record in transforming ideas into market-leading products.

By developing the full industrial ecosystem—from Fabless design to ODM manufacturing—we help our partners accelerate innovation, secure supply chains, and deliver high-quality, differentiated solutions to the market.

Contact us to understand how our end-to-end expertise in industrial ecosystem development can empower your next project!