by Nigel Hilton
Want to design the perfect product? Here are a few key elements to consider before you bring your product to market.
It serves its function/purpose
The most important aspect of your product is that it serves its function/purpose. This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised by how many designers let aesthetics and cost get in the way. A pair of shoes for instance needs to keep the water and stay on someone’s feet (unless you’re creating some artistic fashion statement).
It looks good
As well as being practical, your product also needs to look good if you want it to sell. Consider the colour, the shape, the quality of craftsmanship and the packaging. Even something as practical as a hammer can benefit from professional packaging and good quality craftsmanship.
It’s durable
If your product breaks easily, a lot of customers will want a refund and your reputation will take a lot of damage. Consider aspects like weatherproofing – this zinc plating guide could be worth reading. Making sure that your product doesn’t break when knocked or dropped could also be important.
It’s ergonomic
Ergonomics is the way in which a product fits the human body. It could include adding handles and grips for easy-handling or making a chair comfortable to sit on for long periods by providing enough cushioning and support. An ergonomic product is usually more user-friendly and could reduce the risk of long-term injuries.
It’s environmentally friendly
It’s important that the manufacture and distribution of your product doesn’t cause too much environmental damage. This could include using materials that are recyclable or sustainable. When it comes to products that rely on electricity, it could also involve improving energy-efficiency. This guide to environmental product design could be worth reading for more information.
It’s health and safety conscious
If your product causes injury to someone, it could result in a lawsuit, which in turn could cost you money and damage your reputation. Certain health and safety features could be legal requirements, while others could be advised such as using non-toxic finishes and removing sharp edges where possible.
It’s good value for money
The price of the product should reflect the quality. If you plan to sell your product cheaply, you may be able to get away with less durability or reduced aesthetic appeal. However, if you plan to sell your product at a high price, you may not be able to overlook these features. It’s important that you also make a profit from every product that you sell and that you don’t spend too much on materials and manufacture. This is all something that you should carefully budget beforehand.
It’s been trialed and tested
You should always trial and test a product before bringing it to market. Certain tests may be legally compulsory, while others could simply help you to iron out faults. Test your product privately and then test it on consumers. The best product designers test and improve their product multiple times before eventually selling it, so that they can offer the best final product possible.