5 Key Aspects of Strong Product Design

Millions of years ago, a caveman needed to cut something, so he sharpened the edge of a rock. Did that caveman mass-produce these sharp-edged rocks and deliver them next-day to his fellow man’s caves? No. But what that caveman didn’t realize was that was the dawn of what would become modern-day product design.

Luckily, we now live in a world that has cultivated the process of product design. Although it is a fluid and creative field, we have a blueprint of how to make a design great. Below are keys, refined over millions of years. 

What Is Product Design?

Product design is recognizing a demand, understanding a problem, determining a solution, and testing it in the field. Here are five key aspects of strong product design.

1. Product Design Has to Solve a Problem

New inventions are successful because there is an existing problem that needs to be solved. This must be a solution that consumers are willing to pay for. The more common the problem, the more useful the product. 

The designer must understand the end-user as a common person and drill into the tendencies and frustrations with the problem they need solved.  

2. Innovation Is Key

Typically, new inventions are improvements on existing products. Thomas Edison is credited with inventing the light bulb. However, he actually just improved on an invention that already existed. In fact, the patent he submitted was called “Improvement in Electric Lights.”

Product innovation doesn’t have to be for a brand new product. It just needs to be an innovative, fresh take that does something better, stronger, faster, etc. 

3. Make It Work Well

First and foremost, customers want a quality product that works and will pay its value. Hone in on the primary purpose of the product and make it perform that function well. Additional features are great, but if a product is subpar in its primary purpose, it will fail.

A prime example of failing with product design is the Ford Edsel. This car was meant to be a high-end automobile, but instead, Ford flooded the model with too many features — many of which did not work. Customers quickly discovered the flawed product design, and the model was discontinued only two years after its release.

4. Keep It Simple

Most consumers want to unbox the product and start using it immediately. When planning product design, keep in mind the setup time and how easy the product is to learn how to use. Customers will abandon a product if the setup is complicated or using it takes too long to figure out.

5. Make It Look Good

Performance isn’t all that matters. The way a product looks is almost as good as how it works. Consumers like simplicity, and minimalism goes a long way.

Just look at Apple. The brand has a clean, pure look, with cohesion between all of its products. The devices are practical, easy to use, and have a sleek, futuristic appearance. People will buy Apple products just to have a uniform look between their electronic devices. 

Let’s Create and Innovate

Following these five key aspects of product design will help you have an accurate vision for your product. 

You and your innovation team shouldn’t overthink the process. Instead, simply consider what appeals to you when you have a problem that needs solving. For further ideas on product design and innovation, check out the technology section of our blog!