Integration cost is usually hidden in coordination
A loose stack seems flexible until the project starts paying for bracket rework, harness changes, and duplicated validation notes. That cost should be made explicit early.
Integrated motion is strongest when ownership, interfaces, and FAT scope are all easier with one release package than with several vendors.
- Count coordination loops, not only material cost.
- Look at FAT scope and field support before deciding the stack.
- Use integrated assemblies when wiring and mounting assumptions move together.
Decision guide
Use this before freezing the commercial structure of the project.
| Signal | Loose stack | Integrated assembly |
|---|---|---|
| Bracket churn | High risk | Lower risk |
| Wiring ownership | Split across teams | Single package |
| Field support | More cross-vendor coordination | Cleaner escalation path |
Quick scoring model
const chooseIntegrated = coordinationLoops > 3 || harnessRisk === 'high' || fatScope === 'shared';Continue Reading
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