Before engineering custom parts, advanced modeling techniques such as Computer Aided Design (CAD) or Fine Element Analysis (FEA) can be used to test and refine the new design. In the example of the slide-loading instrument, CAD models could be used to simulate the integration of the instrument with the new microscope, including the design of a precision XY stage and customized mounting components. The customized mounting plates and feet are only engineered once the design has been perfected on the computer. Using a CAD model to verify the integration can significantly reduce the time and cost of the design iteration.
To reduce the integration risk associated with developing customization components, a company can engage a contract supplier to develop an end-to-end system already integrated with the new hardware and software. For example, if a contract manufacturer was customizing a slide loader to integrate with a new microscope as well as a two-dimensional barcode reader, they would not only take responsibility for the design, development and testing of the customization components, they would also ship the entire system already integrated and tested. Depending on the nature of the instrument, the supplier may also be responsible for running chemistry or protocol testing on the instrument to verify system operation.