Product design is a multi-step process that brings an idea from its conception to a physical or digital good. It’s often rooted in research and keeps user needs front and center. Whether it’s a new mobile app, website or piece of furniture, product design considers how users will interact with the product to deliver a seamless experience.
It’s also not limited to visual design; in fact, much of product design is about finding creative ways to solve problems for users. For example, a traditional glass ketchup bottle used to be difficult to use because the hole in the top was too small. To address this issue, the product designer reinvented the bottle to make it easier for customers to get ketchup out. The result was a bottle that became more popular and profitable for the brand.
Getting started on product design can be daunting, even for seasoned professionals. A solid research process is crucial for making sure your designs meet user needs and improve business goals. For example, understanding user personas can help you anticipate how people will interact with your product and identify any pain points that may need to be addressed. Similarly, observing users in their natural environment can be extremely useful for helping you empathize with them and better understand what they want or need from your product.
After your research is complete, it’s time to create a concept for the product. This step usually starts with a quick sketch, model or blueprint, depending on the type of product you’re designing. It’s helpful to use 3D modeling software to conceptualize the details and elements that will go into your final product. This can help everyone involved get a feel for what the final product will look like and make any adjustments they think are necessary.
Once the initial design is in place, it’s time to start prototyping. This is where a lot of the magic happens. It’s important to test your designs with actual users so you can see how they react and make any necessary improvements. Using a tool like Hotjar can help you record your user journeys so you can identify where you can improve your product and what changes need to be made.
Developing a product takes a lot of planning, collaboration and creativity to bring it to life. Having a strong team with cross-functional skills can help your project run smoothly and reduce the risk of miscommunication and missed opportunities. To ensure a successful product launch, it’s critical to keep up with market trends and user needs, as well as keeping an eye on competitors. Ultimately, your goal is to design a product that will delight your audience and be successful in the marketplace. Good luck!