Prototyping is a critical step in validating and refining your design. I use advanced prototyping techniques to create physical and digital models that test form, function, and user interaction.
This hands-on approach allows for real-time adjustments and improvements, ensuring that the final product is both feasible and optimized for the customer experience. Whether it’s a simple low-fidelity mock-up or a fully functional, high-fidelity prototype, I provide the capability needed to iterate quickly and effectively.
The Prototyping service can be broken down into four key stages: Planning, Development, Testing, and Iteration. Each stage is essential for creating and refining prototypes that accurately represent the final product.
These stages ensure a thorough and systematic approach to Prototyping, resulting in a well-tested and refined product that is ready for manufacturing.
In the Planning stage, the groundwork for successful prototyping is laid out. This involves:
Requirement Analysis
Defining the specific goals and objectives of the prototype
Material Selection
Choosing the appropriate materials and techniques based on the design and functional requirements.
Prototyping Strategy
Developing a clear plan for the prototyping process, including timelines and resources.
During the Development stage, the actual creation of the prototype takes place. Activities include:
Building Prototypes
Using selected materials and techniques to construct physical or digital prototypes.
Modelling and Simulation
Employing CAD software and other tools to refine and optimise the prototype design.
Integration
Ensuring that all components fit together and function as intended.
The Testing stage is crucial for evaluating the prototype's performance and functionality. This involves:
Functional Testing
Assessing how well the prototype meets the design specifications and user needs.
Usability Testing
Gathering feedback from users to understand their interaction with the prototype.
Performance Analysis
Analysing data from tests to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
In the Iteration stage, feedback and testing results are used to refine the prototype. This includes:
Feedback Incorporation
Making adjustments based on user feedback and test results.
Redesign and Refinement
Continuously improving the prototype's design and functionality.
Final Validation
Ensuring that the refined prototype meets all requirements and is ready for the next phase of development.
The Prototyping phase typically takes 4 - 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the design and the specific requirements.
This timeframe allows for thorough development, testing, and iteration of the prototype to ensure it meets all necessary criteria.
At the end of the Prototyping phase, you will typically receive:
The cost for Prototyping varies based on the project's complexity and scope. Early on in the project, I provide estimated prototype costs to help you budget. After we have completed the design work required to build prototypes, I provide a detailed quote based on the materials and processes chosen. This investment ensures a well-tested and refined prototype that accurately represents the final product and is ready for the next development phase.
As a guide, the allowance for Prototyping in your project as a percentage of your overall project budget might look like:
Product Strategy - 10%
Industrial Design - 30%
Prototyping - 30 %
Design For Manufacture - 30%
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