What is the typical process from brief to delivery?
A project can move through nine clear stages, with the detail and responsibilities adapted to the requirement.
The short answer
A typical project moves from the brief and requirement review into sourcing, samples, commercial approval, production, quality control, delivery and follow-up. Not every project needs every stage, and some activities overlap. The sequence is adapted to the product and agreed scope.
The nine-stage project path
A typical sourcing and project supply sequence
- 01BriefExplain the product or supply need
- 02Requirement ReviewClarify specifications and priorities
- 03Supplier SourcingReview suitable manufacturing options
- 04SamplingDevelop and review relevant samples
- 05Commercial ApprovalConfirm scope, terms and approvals
- 06ProductionCoordinate manufacture and changes
- 07Quality ControlCarry out the agreed checks
- 08Freight & DeliveryCoordinate shipment and destination planning
- 09After-Sales Follow-UpSupport agreed issue communication
The diagram is a working framework, not a promise that every stage has a fixed duration or is included in every engagement.
Put decisions at the right points
Define what has to be approved before production and what evidence is needed before shipment. Sampling can establish a design reference, while quality checks review production against the agreed scope. Compliance or approval requirements may create additional review points.
Freight planning should begin early enough to account for product dimensions, packing and delivery conditions. It should not rely on an unconfirmed production completion date.
Keep changes connected across the sequence
A revision to materials, a new product category or a delayed approval can affect several later stages. Record the change and review its effect on the specification, commercial terms, checking requirements and delivery plan.
For multi-supplier projects, different products may reach these stages at different times. A shared project view helps identify dependencies and the items that may affect overall readiness.
How TL supports this
TL connects Australian client requirements with supplier and production coordination through our Shanghai team. We follow the agreed stages, keep questions and approvals visible, and coordinate the supply scope through to delivery and relevant follow-up.
Have a sourcing requirement in mind?
Tell us what you need, from an individual product to a multi-category project.