Innovative product design: mistakes to avoid before prototyping

Innovation

A successful prototype depends on decisions made before its manufacture

Innovation

In an innovative product design project, prototyping is often perceived as the moment when the idea becomes concrete. But the quality of a prototype depends above all on the clarity of the brief, the targeted uses, and the trade-offs made beforehand.

Prototyping too early, without a precise hypothesis, can produce a costly object that does not answer the right questions. The challenge is to know what the prototype needs to verify: ergonomics, volume, interaction, feasibility, perception, or usage.

Do not confuse model and prototype

A model can be used to understand a proportion or a gesture. A prototype can test a function or a behavior. Each medium must have a clear role in the project's progression.

Document decisions

A good design process keeps track of choices and compromises. This documentation facilitates discussions with engineers, manufacturers, investors, and internal teams.

Key Takeaways

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