Originally intended to be called ‘Early Bird’, but ultimately presented here as ‘Early Fox’ because the name ‘Early Bird’ was already taken at uniforx and, colour-wise, the fox goes much better with the red of SMaker3D.

What is the “EarlyFox”?

SMaker3D is Markus’s modelling company, and as a solopreneur, developing such a wide variety of products isn’t always easy. This is particularly true as many ideas from the community are produced in very small batches. As the ideas come from the community and I cannot test them all sufficiently myself – or, as is occasionally the case, my test group is too small – I ask my community for their kind assistance in testing. However, as not everyone wants to try everything, I’ve realised that a club with 10 exclusive testers doesn’t work. What’s more, the people who come up with the ideas are always part of the early testing process too. So it’s essentially an open system with its pros and cons. 

How does it work?

Products that are yet to be launched – in other words, those whose readiness still needs to be tested – are made available as a limited offer in the EarlyFoxClub for the community to test. For example, a new supplier might offer 10 units, and I then wait for feedback from the first buyers. Improvements are made, and once everything is right, the product goes on general sale. Unfortunately, I can’t afford to pay the testers or give the products away for free, but I’m trying to strike a balance here. The products are cheaper than their subsequent retail price. The people who came up with the ideas get the chance to see their ideas brought to life without having to make a major investment. And all refinements and iterations are free of charge. 

It will soon become clear how this goes and what adjustments are needed. An open exchange of ideas – a sort of group chat – is also important here.