A step by step design process
The figure above shows our full design process. We run through this fully often enough, but we are flexible. Depending on the project and the client's wishes, we focus on part of the process. This flexibility is also reflected in the work we do per phase. The focus may be in a different place on different projects, and the work is adapted accordingly. A number of activities we almost always perform: the ideation phase, for instance, is inherently linked to brainstorming, and during design and engineering we will always create (vision) models. To give a general idea of the different phases, we list the most important activities for each phase below:
Analysis
By conducting research, we gain early insight into the requirements and wishes the product or innovation needs to meet. We make sure we have the design challenge in focus and we identify the opportunities that lie ahead.
— Interviews with stakeholders
— Analysis of relevant trends
— Analysis competitor products
— Mapping customer journey
— Market research
— Technologieën en materialen in kaart brengen
— Identifying constraints and opportunities
— Establishing requirements and wishes
Analysis
By conducting research, we gain early insight into the requirements and wishes the product or innovation needs to meet. We make sure we have the design challenge in focus and we identify the opportunities that lie ahead.
— Interviews with stakeholders
— Analysis of relevant trends
— Analysis competitor products
— Mapping customer journey
— Market research
— Mapping technologies and materials
— Identifying constraints and opportunities
— Establishing requirements and wishes
Ideation
We brainstorm and arrive at possible solutions to the design issue. Through the systematic generation of ideas, often through co-creation, and critical selection, we arrive at concepts that meet all requirements.
— Systematic brainstorming
— Co-creation sessions or workshops
— Evaluating ideas based on requirements
— Visualizing possible concepts
— Rough estimates of production costs
— Presenting ideas to the stakeholders
— Presenting ideas to the client
— Update requirements based on findings
— Make recommendations about the continuation
Proof of concept
We prove the essential working principles of the concept through rapid prototyping. The aim is to verify that the solution works not only in theory, but also in practice.
— Determining assumptions to be verified
— Prototyping with off-the-shelf parts
— Designing and building test rigs
— Testing in our workshop or on location
— Interpreting and evaluating test results
— Concluding whether operating principle is successful
Proof of concept
We prove the essential working principles of the concept through rapid prototyping. The aim is to verify that the solution works not only in theory, but also in practice.
— Determining assumptions to be verified
— Prototyping with off-the-shelf parts
— Designing and building test rigs
— Testing in our workshop or on location
— Interpreting and evaluating test results
— Concluding whether operating principle is successful
Function prototype
With the function prototype, all previously proven features are being combined in one model. We will then extensively test and evaluate this prototype.
— Prototyping & testing
— Stakeholder feedback sessions
— Researching production methods
— Material research
— Electrical engineering
— Strength-analysis
— Patent research
— User tests
— FMEA analysis
Product prototype
The product prototype goes one step further in terms of detail. Not only do all the functions come together, but the prototype is now also correct in terms of geometry and dimensions. In this way we can evaluates how appearance and function come together.
— Prototyping & testing
— Interface design (UX)
— Stakeholder feedback sessions
— Strength and longevity testing
— Finding production partners
— Sourcing parts
— Rough design of supply chain
— Testing and evaluating ergonomics
— Field testing
Production prototype
The production prototype is the last step before actual production. The prototype corresponds 1:1 to how it will be produced. As soon as the production prototype has been approved, production can be prepared.
— Prototyping & testing
— Finetuning details
— Stakeholder feedback sessions
— Setting up production
— Technical documentation
— Detailed cost calculation
A clear project plan
Before we get started, we make sure that it is clearly agreed what activities we will carry out and what deliverables come with them. We normally do this by means of a project plan. This contains the budget, the details of the assignment, agreements on who is responsible for what and a schedule. After each phase, there will be a point at which the course can be adjusted: sometimes, progressive insight causes us to adjust the strategy somewhat. We follow the client's wishes but will always make recommendations based on our expertise. In this way, we ensure together that the investment is spent as effectively as possible.
Excited to put us to work?
We are always eager to get to work on new challenges. Do you already have a concrete issue or are you still looking for possible innovations? In either case, we will be happy to help you.
