In the last few years we’ve witnessed an explosion of business owners and inventors who have benefited from the services of a design firm however have not succeeded in taking their ideas beyond an attractive sketch. If clients contact us, after being dissatisfied with other design agencies, we usually must start with a fresh start to transform their ideas into something that will please, sell and create the business.
The times have changed. Older people like me had only one or two schools to choose from to study design for products. The concept was not widely understood that design agencies were rare as well as infrequent, therefore, we had the option between clients both large and small. We worked with clients who knew the design of their products and required external support and we were with them throughout the process as the product made its way into the hands of consumers.
Today, we are able to use Dragons’ Den, Kickstarter and Crowd Cube, and it is now easier than it’s ever been to convert an idea into a real. The issue is that generating the idea is the easiest part. Converting the idea into a feasible, technically viable and economically viable product is incredibly challenging. In this day and age of crowdfunding, we’re getting designs from various agencies that are either unpractical, or not feasible or worse either. A few of these agencies have stated that they can’t even make a prototype of their designs. What is the way to make that happen?
The past courses, such as “What Next for Your Invention?” can be invaluable in describing how to bring an idea to market. But knowing the most effective route to market isn’t the same as knowing the best partner to partner with to achieve your goals. What are the best ways to pick a trustworthy design firm?
1. Check out some of the case studies from the Agency.
Check to see if they’ve proven themselves of bringing products to market. It’s not just drawing it and then living with the product and standing with their customers as it is rolled from the factory. If you’re seeing lots of computer-generated drawings , but no actual products or client testimonials beware.
Get in touch with Flynn Product Design Agency today for all your design requirements.
2. There is no need to be restricted to a specific category, however it could be helpful.
If it’s relevant consider the requirements for your specific category. Baby products, for instance will require greater tests and certifications than the typical household item. We come across ideas that we are aware of, in a single glance, are not suitable for an examination of the house test.
3. Ask the agency for their experience in determining the best route to market in your specific area.
For instance, toys. We’ve been designing and creating toys for over 15 years and we’re aware that if a product needs to be sold in mass-market for PS10 and we are unable to make something that’s priced higher than, say, PS2 to make.
4. Do the case studies examine different concepts?
Or are you trying different styles of the same idea? If you’re going to invest money in bringing an idea on the road to commercialization, you must be certain that you’re backing the correct one. If you don’t fully explore the concept from the beginning it opens the door to a potential competitor.
5. Has the design firm walked the lines of manufacturing?
This is among the most important aspects If you aren’t able to make it, you won’t be able to offer it for sale. The theory is good however, do your design team have experience with a variety of production techniques? Are they knowledgeable about materials and collaborate with those who create things? They should know how to make products to sell their products and not just make prototypes.
6. What is the size of their network?
Only the very best can have top talent working in every department. A reputable design company could have an expert mechanical engineer working alongside an expert in electronics for instance. Many agencies have a large network of experts that they can rely on for help with projects. It’s like hiring the services of an architect for designing your home and they’ll manage the construction, but continue to bring in plumbers, surveyors, and so on. It is expected from your design partner They must find the most skilled people to your product as it goes to the market.
7. The last thing to consider is: Do you think it’ll be enjoyable having a designer on your team?
The process of developing products can be very difficult to achieve and requires you to make a huge investment prior to receiving a return. The most exciting aspect of development is when new opportunities emerge, however challenges must be addressed every day. It is essential to take the journey with a positive attitude, and be confident that your partner in development will be there to help you and always reach out to you with solutions.
If you are looking for a design company to work with you to develop your concept, keep the above tips in your mind. Starting with a subpar design will be unproductive and money. So don’t hesitate to be specific about your goals.