7 Pitfalls of Manufacturing a Product Without Design Input
Quality manufacturing techniques and creative design solutions are both essential in creating a successful product. When these two disciplines are not in sync it can negatively impact the long-term market performance of a product. This article breaks down the difference between designers and manufacturers to highlight the 7 pitfalls of using one without the other.
01: Unappealing Aesthetics
Manufacturing a product without the expertise of a design consultancy can significantly compromise its aesthetics. Industrial design consultancies bring specialized knowledge in creating visually appealing and functional products by considering factors like form, color, texture, and overall user experience.
Without their input, manufacturers may prioritize familiar manufacturing technologies. Potentially leading to products that lack cohesive design, fail to attract consumers, or do not align with aesthetic trends. This oversight can result in a less appealing product, reducing its market competitiveness.
02: Poor User Experience Design (UX)
Manufacturing expertise results in products that are durable with minimal inconsistencies. While these two qualities are important in creating quality products they don't consider the specific needs of the user.
UX designers specifically focus on creating products that are intuitive, ergonomic, and aligned with user needs. Manufacturers can overlook or misinterpret key opportunities without their design expertise. This can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction among users, potentially damaging a brand's long-term reputation.
03: Inconsistent Branding
When creating a series of products within a single brand it is important to establish a clear design language. This not only helps brands differentiate themselves from competitors but also creates a sense of brand loyalty. Without a cohesive design strategy, manufacturers may struggle to establish a solid and recognizable brand identity across their product lineup.
Design firms play a crucial role in harmonizing design elements ensuring that each product reflects the brand's core values. Without their guidance, products may diverge in style and functionality, leading to a fragmented and confusing brand identity. This inconsistency can make it difficult for consumers to form a clear understanding of the brand in the marketplace.
04: Lack of Ergonomics
Perfecting ergonomics often starts with creating good-quality prototypes. Manufacturers are fully capable of creating them. They offer cost-effective ways of creating work-like models that can be used for testing. This iterative testing and refinement phase is where the experience of a design consultancy becomes invaluable.
They can identify issues and offer precise ergonomic solutions prior to full-scale production. Ignoring ergonomic findings during this time can lead to uncomfortable or awkward devices, potentially causing physical discomfort or repetitive strain injuries for users.
05: Mismatched Form and Function
During the final stages of product development, pushing the design through the manufacturing process with minimal design input is often tempting. This race to the finish can often be fatal to a product.
Without designers involved, manufacturers may make subtle changes that prioritize manufacturing goals. These changes add up, resulting in devices that either sacrifice usability or aesthetics. Designers can provide changes with manufacturing optimization in mind without sacrificing the original design's form and function.
06: Neglected Packaging Design
A manufacturing team ensures that packaging materials are durable, cost-effective, and aligned with sustainability goals. Their expertise is crucial in creating a package that performs well in transit, but this is just half of a package's role.
Attracting customers while on the shelf and offering a unique unboxing experience play a crucial role in the success of a package's design. Designers add this additional level of expertise. Without design expertise, bad packaging may even bring down the perceived value of the product.
07: Ignored Cultural Sensitivities
Overseas manufacturing sources are often used due to their speed and lower manufacturing costs. While there are certainly advantages, cultural differences can significantly impact product design and marketing in global markets.
Without input from designers familiar with the cultural norms and preferences of the target market, products may inadvertently offend or alienate specific customers.
Conclusion
When creating a product, collaboration between a manufacturer and a design consultancy is essential. Design consultancies bring a deep understanding of user-centered design, aesthetics, and ergonomics. Infusing a product with visually appealing, intuitive, and comfortable design solutions.
Meanwhile, manufacturers contribute technical expertise in materials, production processes, and cost management. Transforming the design into a feasible, high-quality product that can be efficiently and reliably produced. This synergy between design innovation and practical execution ensures that the final product looks good, functions well, and meets industry standards.
At Acorn Product Development, we work with manufacturers from the start of the design process and provide support services throughout production. Fill out the form below to speak with an expert and learn more.