Industrial Designer how-to

How to Develop a Product Concept

Strong concepts start with users.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Strong concepts start with users. In short: research; define; sketch, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Research user needs.

  2. Define the problem.

  3. Sketch many ideas.

  4. Select promising concepts.

  5. Build quick mockups.

  6. Test and refine.

Safety reminders for industrial designers

  • Use model shop tools safely
  • Design products with user safety in mind
  • Wear PPE in shops
  • Respect intellectual property

Ergonomics · Prototype · CAD · Rendering · Design for manufacturing (DFM) · Injection molding: see the full industrial designer glossary.

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