In recent times we’ve seen an explosion of entrepreneurs and startups who have benefited from the services of a design firm but haven’t had the ability to develop their ideas beyond an attractive sketch. When our clients come to us after being dissatisfied with other design agencies, we usually need to begin with a fresh start to transform their concept into a product that will please, sell and create businesses.
The times have changed. Older people like me had only few schools to choose from to study design for products. The concept was not widely understood that design agencies were rare in number, consequently, we all had the opportunity 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 when the products were getting into the hands of consumers.
We now can use Dragons’ Den, Kickstarter and Crowd Cube, and it is now easier than it’s ever been to transform an idea into reality. The issue is that generating the idea is the easiest part. Making that idea into a practical and economically viable product is incredibly challenging. Therefore, in the current day and age of crowdfunding, we’re seeing some designs from various agencies that are either impossible, or economically unsustainable or, at the very least either. A few of these agencies have stated that they can’t even make a prototype of the designs they’ve come up with. What is the way to make that happen?
Previous courses like “What Next for Your Invention?” can be invaluable in helping you understand how to get your product from concept to market. However, knowing the best way to market isn’t the same as being aware of the right people to partner with to help you get there. What are the best ways to select a reliable design firm such as Flynn Product Design Company?
1. Take a look at some of the case studies from the Agency.
Be sure that they’ve proven themselves in bringing a product to market. This is not just drawing the product and then putting it into their product and standing beside their clients when it comes from the factory. If you’ve seen many computer sketches but no finished products or client testimonials Beware.
2. There is no need to stick to a specific category, however it might help.
If the product is of interest consider the requirements of your particular category. Baby products, for instance are obviously more subject to tests and certifications than a typical household item. We come across ideas that we are aware of, in a single glance, are not suitable for in a house test review.
3. Ask the agency for their expertise on the best way to market in your specific area.
Consider toys for instance. We’ve designed and developed toys for the past 15 years and we are aware that if a product needs to sell in the mass market for PS10 and we are unable to create something that’s priced higher than, say, PS2 to make.
4. Do their case studies actually test different concept executions?
Or are you trying different styles of the same idea? If you’re planning 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 in the beginning this opens the way to competition.
5. Has the design firm walked the production lines?
This is among the most important aspects If you aren’t able to make it, you won’t be able to make it available for sale. The theory is good however, does your designer have knowledge of a variety of manufacturing methods? Do they know the basics of materials and collaborate with those who create things? They must know how to make products to sell their products not just prototypes.
6. What is the size of their network?
Only the very best can have top talent working in every department. A top design agency could include a top mechanical engineer working alongside an expert in electronics, for instance. Many agencies have built a solid network of professionals they can rely on for help with projects. It’s like hiring the services of an architect for designing your home They will oversee the construction, but continue to bring in plumbers, surveyors, and so on. Expect the same from your design partner and they must find the most skilled people to the project as it moves to the market.
7. The last thing to consider is: Do you think it would be enjoyable to work with the designer you’ve chosen?
The process of developing products can be very difficult to master and requires you to make a huge investment prior to making a profit. The thrilling part of development is when new opportunities emerge, however issues must be resolved every day. In the ideal scenario, you should be positive about the process and trust 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 design, keep these above tips in your mind. A design that is not up to par is an unnecessary waste of time and money. So don’t be afraid to speak up about your goals.
