Product Development Process in Engineering Design

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We are often asked: "How do I get my great idea onto a store shelf?"   - It's a great question with a not so simple answer. Getting a new product to market is more than just having a few parts made. It done through a process called "Product Development".

The Bright Idea Step 1 - Identify the "Bright Idea"

Requirements Step 2 - Define the Requirements

Step 3 - Gather Outside Information
(Patent Search, Market Research)

Step 4 - The Design Phase

Design
Prototyping Step 5 -
Prototyping



Production Step 6 -
Production

How does it work?
     The process starts with the great idea then transforms through a development process to become the valuable, desirable product envisioned. This is a process of working out the details in design, thinking through adaptations, defining the processes - like how it's made, materials, possible failure modes, required regulations, etc..

The Problem (an Example):

A few years ago I was looking for new stereo speakers. I visited local stores, read articles, books and magazines. I talked to friends and sales people. In the end, I was disappointed that the really "good" speakers were too expensive, and the affordable speakers were ... well, "cheap". I wanted great sound without having to mortgage the farm.

The Bright Idea:

Design a high-end speaker that can be made without a paying a fortune.

What then, is the process?
     A simplified diagram of the process with links to more information is shown on the Left.
Discovering the "Bright Idea" is the first big step -- and it usually occurs without much of a process. Some typical steps for the rest of the process are discussed on the following pages. Select a link below or
Continue to Step 2

Links for further reading: Step 2 - Defining Requirements.
Step 3 - Gathering outside Information.
Step 4 - The Design Phase.
Step 5 - The Purpose of Prototypes.
Step 6 - Production Details and Production.
Process Notes - Time, Costs, Considerations.

Mar	APR	May
	10
2002	2003	2004