What do we look for in a pre-order?

[Drix]

I feel like we've gotten really off base here and moved something that I was hoping to be a really constructive thread into something that's well, not. Perhaps I should have titled the thread "What do we expect from a preorder?" I hear lots about economics, but lets face it- If there were a reliable way to be working the economics someone, somewhere would be using it. We can't change the passing of money overnight but what we can change is how we accept and allow vendors to deliver our products, and a clear picture of the product we're buying before we put our money down.

[luke]

1. A clear definition of the product we are looking for

I dont understand how that would ever be a problem.

a. If this is a non-prototyped project a specific mention that this build has never been fabricated for testing

Personally I have never seen a preorder where this was not clear one way or the other. Plus as a designer and machinist (speaking only for myself) I don’t see how that would ever be a concern to the consumer. Sometimes I prototype sometimes not, either way it’s not your concern as long as you get a working part. If it does not work it’s my responsibility to make it right.
The MM2K was prototyped and tested and there was still problems, so your concerns really don't cover any bases. You can prototype till the cows come in and still have 101 problems in the production run. So like I said before personal ethics of the person behind the preorder is the real concern.

b. If this is a prototyped project a short media type (photo, video) of a prototype model working as stated.

I believe most everyone works in 3D programs so I don't see this as a real issue. As far as working parts, not sure how one could get away with selling something that did not work as intended.

2. A firm order date, start date, and finishing date.

That will never happen in the real world.

3. A bi-weekly update of project progression, even if it is "nothing has happened this week"

Easy enough.

4. No more than 2 project extension deadlines

Never happen, no way to control that.

5. Specific shipping restrictions
a. At least 1 layer of bubble wrap
b. Standardized shipping and delivery confirmation
c. Acceptable standards of cosmetics on delivery

Perfectly acceptable.

6. Statement of merchantability.
a. If product does not meet standards cosmetically or functionally, what will happen.

That's a no brainer, you should get what you paid for.

[Drix]

Glad a manufacturer chimed in Thanks Luke, I will revise ideas.