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what is design process?

The design process is an approach for breaking down a large project into manageable sections, and further identifying aspects which require problem solving.

Process gives the designer a framework to tackle the three fundamental aspects of any project: creative thinking, problem solving, and aesthetics.

Without creative thinking there is no originality.  Without problem solving nothing works as intended.  Without aesthetics products don't look desirable.  All three are critical to any design project.

But design projects are also fluid and tricky to navigate.  Sometimes good ideas prove to be unrealistic to make.  Sometimes revisions are needed for unforeseeable reasons.  This is an inherent part of product development, and something every client needs to understand before pursuing their ideas.

However, a solid and proven design process helps overcome these hurdles and adds efficiency to each step.

At ThinkerDo Design, we breakdown our projects into the following six phases:

THINK. DESIGN. DO

creative thinking

problem solving

aesthetics

Market & Product Research

We first examine the market that a product would enter as well as it's competition to ensure that the idea is viable, desirable, and unique.

Concept development

After reviewing our research with our client, it is time to put pen to paper.  During this phase the goal is to develop as many concepts, ideas, and configurations as possible.  This phase is all about creativity and brainstorming.

Industrial design

After concept development, a few directions should be decided upon.  In this phase those ideas are flushed out and analysed.  The intent is to think through all possibilities with the product and address the areas that need problem solving.

CAD & Engineering

With a workable design in hand, it is time to take it to the computer.  The design is created in 3D CAD modeling software, where the remainder of the engineering work can be done.  Mechanisms, fasteners, and electronics are addressed at this stage.

mockups & Prototyping

Mockups and prototypes are an essential step to creating a workable design.  Until the device is proven to work when being used, the prior phases are hypothetical.  Issues that require revisions are always best found here, and not in manufacturing.

manufacturing files

Once all the other design phases and revisions have been completed, it's time to get your idea made.  We can facilitate any factory with all the necessary CAD files, blueprints, and documentation needed to quote costs and begin production.

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