Product development methodology is sometimes unorthodox: if you have trouble working outside the box and need rigid development structures and chains of command, you’d have a tough time dealing with DSC these past few years. The company fostered a less-structured, fast-paced environment to eliminate bureaucracy and enable creativity, quick reaction to new info, and ultimately results. Several major products were successfully developed in a fraction of the time a more classical approach would have allowed. Processes tightened significantly as production began and this trend will continue in manufacturing if the company makes it through this rough patch and scales.
DSC is going through a very challenging period that many startups experience. Predicting sales ramp rates for brand new tech is hard, and backed by major investor confidence, the company staffed up too quickly. The recent layoffs were harshly executed, and many great people were lost, but the company needed to correct. Times are difficult, but many major business opportunities are actively being worked. Time will tell how successful DSC will be in landing and executing these.
