CEO Talk: Alex Grebenkov CBDO at nao.design

This interview was held with Alex Grebenkov, Chief Business Development Officer at nao.design

Tell me a bit about your background. How did you first get started with nao.design?

My background stems from a team effort. nao.design was formed by a group of talented individuals with experience at major tech companies like LG, Philips, and Motorola. We all shared a passion for innovation and saw an opportunity to make a difference.

Those combined backgrounds in research, development, and manufacturing at industry leaders have been instrumental in shaping our approach.

What problem did you see that needed to be fixed? What is your approach to solving that?

We identified a key challenge in the super low-cost segment’s rapid pace of change. Shrinking device life cycles due to trends and chip advancements pressure companies to churn out new offerings constantly. This reactive cycle limits true innovation.

We partner with companies to become innovation enablers through proactive trend spotting, rapid prototyping and iteration, and cost-effective solutions. By becoming innovation partners, we empower even resource-constrained companies in the super low-cost segment to move beyond imitation and develop unique and competitive products.

How has the role/offering of nao.design changed during recent years?

In recent years, we’ve recognized the need to evolve beyond just being a vendor. We’re now striving to be a true partner for our customers throughout the entire development process. The journey from idea to realization can be complex and demanding. By offering ongoing support and collaboration, we aim to be that reliable shoulder to lean on. This shift allows us to better understand our customers’ unique challenges and craft technically sound solutions and strategically aligned with their long-term goals.

Which market segment seems promising to you? And why?

The intersection of voice assistants and wearables holds particular promise. While smartphone use of voice assistants might be limited today, seamlessly integrating them into wearables could be a game changer. Imagine controlling your smart home or getting information with just a voice command through your smartwatch – a much more natural and convenient experience.

As wearable tech evolves, smaller, sleeker designs incorporated into clothing or jewelry could broaden appeal. Collaboration with fashion brands shows how tech can be desirable when it becomes a fashion statement. But choosing the right partners is crucial. Success in this space hinges on marrying technological know-how with a deep understanding of user experience and design aesthetics.

What is a typical customer for nao.design?

Our customers are a diverse bunch! What unites them is a passion for innovation, but their companies can vary greatly. We work with everyone, from large corporations with complex needs to small businesses looking for specific solutions. We take pride in understanding their unique challenges and developing solutions that streamline their hardware development process. As the saying goes, “Hardware is hard,” and we’re here to make it easier.

Customers are focused on time-to-market, first-time-right, price, etc. Do you see a change in customer behavior in recent years? Where is the focus today and why?

Absolutely, customer behavior has shifted in recent years. While factors like time-to-market and price remain important benchmarks, we’re clearly emphasizing a more comprehensive value proposition.

Sustainability has become a central concern for customers. They’re looking for companies that prioritize practices that minimize environmental impact. This translates to a demand for products built to last, with repairability and eco-friendly materials being key considerations.

There’s also a growing focus on user experience. Today’s customers expect a seamless and positive experience across all touchpoints. This means products should be designed with intuitive interfaces and utilize the latest technology to enhance functionality.

In today’s competitive landscape, companies that prioritize good design and a positive customer experience can truly differentiate themselves.

What are the 3 top things you wish your customers would do better (or different)?

In our field, where projects are inherently time-consuming, there are a few key things that can ensure a smoother and more successful collaboration for both us and our clients. My top three recommendations would be:

• Define your product technical requirements from the outset. It will save you valuable time down the line.
• It’s always cheaper to ask for advice early on thаn trying to fix your mistakes later.
• Make informed decisions. Data-driven approach helps ensure the final product aligns with market needs and is positioned for success.

What is your #1 advice for people who want to work for nao.design?

My #1 piece of advice is to cultivate a passion for lifelong learning, especially in the ever-evolving tech landscape. At our company, a core value is staying ahead of the curve. This enthusiasm for technology, coupled with a collaborative spirit, is what makes our team thrive.

Where can one find more information?

Visit our website to learn more about our services and projects. You can find us at nao.design

We’re also active on social media, so be sure to follow us on Linkedin and Instagram for the latest company updates, industry insights, and a glimpse into our company culture.