For small to medium-sized local manufacturers, building and maintaining a strong customer network is crucial for scaling their operations. However, managing customer relationships often involves a multitude of tasks that can quickly become overwhelming. These tasks include generating quotes, exchanging design requests through screenshots, utilizing CAD platforms for part analysis, and using Excel for pricing calculations before transferring data into accounting software. Much of this communication typically takes place across various platforms like WhatsApp, SMS, and email, further complicating the process.
Singapore-based startup Phasio addresses these challenges by automating the integration of WhatsApp, SMS, and email messages into its manufacturing interface. It employs an AI chatbot known as ManufacturingGPT, which engages with customers to gather their requirements and assists them in initiating design requests with the manufacturer. It can also provide instant quotes using Phasio’s automated pricing system. Phasio’s primary objective is to simplify customer relationship management, thereby freeing up resources for local manufacturers to expand their businesses globally.
Founded in 2021 by Harry Conor Lucas and Sudharshan Raman, Phasio has recently secured $2.5 million in seed funding. Airtree Ventures led this funding round, with participation from 500 Global, Entrepreneur First, Michael Sorkin’s Gattaca Ventures, and Tan Teik Guan.
Currently, Phasio is used by over 50 local manufacturers in various markets, including Singapore, Australia, Germany, India, the United Kingdom, Greece, and the Netherlands. It primarily serves small- and medium-sized manufacturers in segments such as additive manufacturing, vacuum casting, molding, and, more recently, computer numerical control.
Both Lucas and Raman have backgrounds in mechanical engineering, with Lucas holding a degree in mechatronics and Raman in aerospace engineering. Their experience in product design made them aware of the challenges faced by manufacturers in creating prototypes and adapting to the rapid pace of the tech industry compared to traditional manufacturing.
Lucas emphasizes that manufacturing relies heavily on building and maintaining relationships with clients. Manufacturers often get bogged down by numerous small requests, from design changes to pricing inquiries. Additionally, many manufacturing tasks are front-loaded, with activities like producing a quote being time-consuming.
Phasio was conceived to help local manufacturers scale and innovate by facilitating client relationships and providing technical expertise to produce better products. The platform integrates with various software applications and service providers, such as CAD software, accounting software, and shipping providers, to streamline communication between manufacturers and customers. This includes providing instant quotations, real-time updates on project status, design collaboration, and order management through a digital storefront.
Phasio claims that its platform can significantly increase an engineer’s workflow, allowing them to handle up to ten projects simultaneously without compromising customer communication. The ultimate goal of Phasio is to create a more diverse and robust supply chain, making onshoring a viable option for more products and fostering global growth in manufacturing.
The seed funding obtained by Phasio will be used to support its go-to-market strategy. The company currently engages with manufacturers directly and relies on word-of-mouth referrals to expand its customer base. Lucas stresses the importance of creating a shared source of knowledge for manufacturers to contribute to and learn from, as there is currently a shortage of such content in the manufacturing industry.
Phasio faces competition from other companies in the additive manufacturing sector, including DigiFabster, AMFG, 3 your mind, and Oqton. Additionally, it indirectly competes with legacy ERP systems like Net suite and SAP, as well as newer alternatives like Fulcrum, Katana, and Odoo. However, Phasio differentiates itself by enabling full design collaboration within its platform, facilitating real-time comments on 3D-rendered parts and enhancing the efficiency of design and fabrication services.
James Cameron, a partner at Air Tree Ventures, commends Phasio’s approach, stating that the future it is building is not just necessary but inevitable for the manufacturing industry.
