You’ve got an idea for a new product that you think your target market will love, and you’re almost ready to start production. Before you open your factory’s doors, commit to these three steps for making your items soar above your competition.

1. Perform Extensive Quality Checks

No matter how careful you and your employees are, you’re going to make mistakes and mess up some batches, especially when you’re working under a deadline. Quality checks may be annoying, but they’re crucial for ensuring that your customers receive your highest quality products. For example, if you produce water pipes, you must conduct a burst pressure test for a representative sample of each batch. If you manufacture reusable water bottles, you must test them for leaks before sending them to packaging.

2. Ask Your Customers for Feedback

Dedicate yourself to asking your customers for feedback several times a year through surveys and casual conversations. Sort through all their opinions and respond to their complaints or concerns. For example, if your customers say that your water pipes aren’t long enough, start making bigger sizes. If your customers wish that you printed your water bottles’ volume on the side, add some measuring lines.

3. Motivate Your Employees

When your employees are motivated, they’re more likely to work efficiently and accurately. Keep their interest with incentives and competitions that focus on quality as well as quantity. For example, hold contests to see which department can have the most consistent quality checks. Also, make your employees feel valued by regularly asking for and responding to their opinions. The more that your employees feel important, the more effort they’re willing to expand on your business.

Instead of trying to make your products stand out once you’ve launched your line, start out strong by committing to these three ways to prioritize quality.