Process.
My design process depends on the project. Scope, speed, complexity and a wide range of factors all influence the approach. Over the years I have developed a solid sense of how to most effectively and efficiently approach a project in just about any circumstance.
Research.
Initial and ongoing research is critical for guiding the direction of any design. Understanding the competitive landscape as well as the customer’s own brand and design language cues demand careful examination.
Sketching.
Sketching is important throughout my design process. Thumbnail sketches are great for working through the initial reaction to a brief, but also for solving unexpected design problems later in the process. Cut-away and section views are especially helpful in resolving manufacturing concerns like wall thicknesses, material overlaps, and draft angles. Of course, detailed drawings and renderings are excellent communication tools for aesthetic refinement as well as marketing and sales feedback.
Prototyping.
Prototyping is a passion. The process of building helps to see and manage a wide range of potential issues as they arise, which is why it is the central pillar of my process. Every prototype adds insights and moves the product forward, especially if it highlights the need to change course completely. Sometimes it is a concern about how the product will be manufactured or assembled, other times it is a user problem or a durability concern.
CAD and 3D Printing.
The Cad development portion can come in at different phases for me. I often think through potential mechanisms using 3D models before I make prototypes. I also CAD up quick models to lay out part numbers and volumes to help get initial quotes to see if it is affordable to manufacture an item.
Detailed Specifications.
The creation of clear and detailed specifications are critical to the final success of any product. Badly written or incomplete specifications can result in production delays or expensive retooling. Understanding what manufacturers need to know and how to best communicate the project goals and requirements is a vital skill set often overlooked by designers.