Launching a new building product often feels like a high-stakes race. Timelines are tight. The list of required certifications is long. And every little delay can ripple through production schedules, marketing launches, and sales goals.
One of the biggest bottlenecks? Managing multiple tests at different labs — fire, acoustical, and structural — while still keeping your project on track, both time- and cost-wise.
NGC Testing Services provides all three types of testing in one location and coordinates the sequence efficiently, helping to streamline the process and reduce complexity and costs.
This article walks you through when and how to bundle your product validation testing so you can get to market quickly, confidently, and in compliance.
Understanding Bundled Testing
By definition, bundled testing means conducting multiple required performance tests for the same product in a coordinated sequence.
For building products, this often means:
- Fire testing for safety and code compliance
- Acoustical testing for sound insulation performance
- Structural testing for load-bearing and durability performance
Instead of managing each test separately, most likely at three different facilities, bundled testing consolidates everything into one plan and location.
This eliminates redundant sample preparation because you can build once for multiple tests. It also shortens the overall project timeline and can improve the accuracy of the testing since fewer handling steps introduce fewer variables into the mix.
For example, imagine you’re launching a new wall assembly. If you need to call three separate labs to conduct each individual test (and coordinate getting samples out to each of these labs in a timely fashion), you could be adding extra weeks to your product launch timeline.
Or, you could run all three tests in a carefully planned sequence with the help of a comprehensive laboratory facility like NGC Testing Services, with your product samples staying in the same place from start to finish.
Common Product Launch Scenarios That Benefit from Bundled Testing
There are quite a few scenarios in which it makes the most sense to plan for bundled testing. This includes:
- Testing of new building assemblies, such as wall systems, floor-ceiling systems, and façade assemblies that require multi-category validation
- Testing of innovative materials, such as new composites or sustainable products that need to prove fire resistance, sound performance, and structural integrity
- Products in need of multiple certifications for standard compliance with several local, state, or national codes
- Large-scale manufacturing launches in which even the smallest delay could cost millions in lost revenue or missed seasonal windows
How Bundled Testing Works at NGC Testing Services
When you work with NGC Testing Services, our bundled testing program follows a proven, streamlined process designed to move you from concept to compliance efficiently.
First, we begin by identifying your product’s performance goals and compliance requirements. This upfront planning allows us to design a testing plan that’s tailored to your unique needs.
Once your requirements are defined, we develop a detailed testing sequence tailored to your product. Our experts strategically determine the order of tests to minimize downtime while ensuring the integrity of your samples is maintained throughout the process.
Next, we handle all necessary preparations, including readying your samples for each planned method. By planning proactively, we help keep the testing process efficient and smooth while minimizing the risk of rework.
All testing is conducted in our facilities, so there’s no extra time required for transporting your product between sites. Once bundled testing is completed, we deliver consolidated documentation with all results clearly laid out to be submitted for code approval.
Benefits of Partnering With a One-Stop Testing Provider
When you choose NGC Testing Services for bundled testing, you gain a partner focused on making your path to market faster, smoother, and more cost-effective.
Our bundled approach streamlines multiple testing programs, reducing delays, complications, and unnecessary costs. By consolidating testing under one roof, you save on shipping, sample preparation, and logistical coordination, while lowering the risk of sample damage.
Working with our team of experts ensures your testing sequence is optimized for maximum accuracy and efficiency, so every step counts.
Tips for Planning a Bundled Test Program
To maximize the potential benefits of bundled testing, it’s important to start working with a testing partner early on in the process — even as early as the design phase.
Be sure to provide detailed documentation, including drawings, material lists, and performance targets, to help your lab partner plan efficiently. Build specimens for multi-use so they can accommodate all required methods of testing without the need for rebuilds.
Additionally, budget extra time if possible for potential adjustments to the product after the initial results are shared.
Why NGC Testing Services Is Your Best Bundled Testing Partner
NGC Testing Services is accredited across a broad range of fire, acoustical, and structural standards. Our team brings extensive expertise, having successfully managed complex, multi-test programs for clients nationwide.
We are committed to delivering accurate, reliable results you can trust. With a client-focused approach, we streamline your path to compliance, allowing you to focus on innovation and growth while we handle the testing process.
Simplify your testing and accelerate your product launch. Contact NGC Testing Services today to start planning your bundled test program.