An excellent prototype is an elusive dream for many. It can be difficult to develop the right prototype, but nevertheless, it can be done.
Prototype Development Tips
When it comes to prototype development, check out these tips that will help you hit the nail on the head during your own product development process.
Be specific
Before ordering your prototype or embarking on the development process, it is critical to know exactly what you want. “Before you ever pick up the phone, make sure you know — and can explain — exactly what you want in as many specifics as possible. You also have to educate yourself on the process so you understand what the person on the other end of the phone is talking about,” explains Mark T. Reyland, an entrepreneur and the executive director of the United Inventors Association of America (UIA). “A virtual prototype is not the same as a prototype, but some manufacturers try to sell them as such. You need to know the terminology so you can be sure you’re getting what you want.”
Choose the right manufacturer
If you want an excellent prototype, you need an excellent manufacturer. “Make sure they have the experience and capability to do everything you need. A smoke alarm is not an overly complicated product, but it does have some complicated issues,” says Reyland. “You need someone with experience that covers everything. Also, look for someone with a design aesthetic that matches yours. You won’t be happy with a futuristic designer if you’re looking to design something around a retro brand.”
If at first you don’t succeed, try again
You may not get your prototype perfect the first time around, and that’s okay. If your first prototype is a flop, you can always give it a second go around. Remember, whatever you decide, try to get your prototype right before you actually begin to manufacture products.
Pivot International is a product design, development, and manufacturing firm with strengths in software development, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and industrial design. If you are interested in engineering a new product or updating an existing product, contact us at 1-877-206-5001 or request your free consultation today.
