Prepare
Hardware RFQ and project brief
Define the scope, files, deliverables, and questions before contacting a supplier.
Open tool →Free tools and templates
Prepare the work.
Make the next decision.
From a supplier enquiry to a pilot build, organize the requirements, evidence, and questions that move hardware forward.
No signup required. Project inputs stay in your browser tab.
What are you working on?
Read the buying guides →Compare
Manufacturing quote comparator
Compare costs and scope across three quotes. Keep unknown charges visible.
Open tool →Find partners
Supplier shortlist builder
Compare your requirements with documented capabilities and export questions to confirm.
Open tool →Prepare
Prototype-to-production planner
Record release files, pilot acceptance, owners, and unresolved decisions.
Open tool →Prepare
Hardware test-plan builder
Prepare a laboratory brief covering samples, setup, methods, and required evidence.
Open tool →Prepare
Component shortage planner
Organize shortages, sourcing evidence, alternative reviews, and build decisions.
Open tool →Prepare
DFM feedback decision log
Turn manufacturing comments into controlled decisions with evidence and owners.
Open tool →Editable downloads
Take the worksheet into your workflow.
Use these templates with your team or suppliers. Amber spreadsheet cells are editable. Illustrative entries are labeled and can be replaced.
Word
Hardware RFQ
Editable scope, revision, deliverables, and supplier questions.
Download template ↓Use the tool →Excel
Quote comparison
Three quotes, guarded totals, scope differences, and unknown charges.
Download template ↓Use the tool →Excel
Supplier evaluation
Requirements, source evidence, open questions, and next actions.
Download template ↓Use the tool →Word
Production handoff
Release package, pilot acceptance, change handling, and approval.
Download template ↓Use the tool →Excel
Pilot acceptance and issues
Sample revisions, evidence, failed units, owners, and disposition.
Download template ↓Use the tool →Word
Laboratory test brief
Samples, setup, method, reporting, and laboratory questions.
Download template ↓Use the tool →Excel
DFM decision log
Feature, supplier comment, functional impact, and release decision.
Download template ↓Use the tool →Excel
Component shortage tracker
Exact part numbers, confirmed supply, alternative approvals, and inventory.
Download template ↓Use the tool →See how a decision takes shape.
Worked example
Comparing two machined-enclosure quotes
An illustrative 50-part order shows why a lower unit price can hide a higher order cost.
Worked example
Preparing a sensor pilot-build handoff
An illustrative handoff connects file revisions, unit evidence, and the decision to repeat a build.
Worked example
Writing a powered-sensor laboratory brief
An illustrative lab request makes operating states and required evidence explicit.
Public evidence
Explore providers and open hardware.
Source-linked collections and a bounded research experiment.
For hardware communities
Use these resources in a workshop.
Worked examples and templates for accelerators, makerspaces, and engineering groups.