Cost is relative. Something is either expensive, cheap or a good buy depending upon the value received. And so it goes with prototyping. Obviously every buyer, no matter what, wants to make sure that he gets the best value for the money invested. So in the prototyping process, how do you quantify value received?
Since no two prototypes are exactly the same it is difficult to compare the cost of one to another. Well, you can compare the estimate from one prototype supplier to that from another and compare the price differential. But that will not tell you which one has more value.
So, as an informed and savvy buyer you take into account past experience. You ask yourself: How good do the castings look? What kind of advice did I get from the prototype supplier? Did the prototype supplier’s advice make a difference in the final outcome? Can I lean on his expertise to ensure a successful prototype? Did he deliver on his promises? Does he truly understand what I am trying to do or does he just want a sale? Does he ask probing questions? Does he offer recommendations? Do I hear only “yes” or is he qualified enough to say “no” once in a while and support it with wisdom?
Only after having sorted through this array of assessments are you ready to quantify the real value of your prototype sources and decide whether the lower dollar figure is indeed the better value.