The answer is pretty simple, really. You need a design because you cannot progress further with just the idea in order to bring the invention to production, to life.

Designs are created to illustrate how your product will function in the market. Designs also help the inventor get a better idea of how it will eventually look upon completion. On the same note, the design also opens the opportunity to analyse the product and make the necessary changes to better enhance the invention before the final steps of production.

The most important part of the design is actually being able to send the final drawings to a manufacturer who has agreed to manufacture the product according to the specifications. Inventors are unable to get a rapid prototype made without a professional design and, as a result, are often stuck in this step of the process. Everyone seeking to have their invention manufactured needs a professionally generated design to ensure that the product will be suitable for manufacturing. It is important to remember that a professionally generated design will include all product specifications and materials required to properly and efficiently manufacture the product, information that is vital to the invention and, the overall production process.

If you decide that you need a design, be sure to spend time ensuring that you find a designer with whom you feel comfortable. Do the appropriate research to find the right designer that will meet your needs. Be sure to check their project portfolio and their website for feedback from clients. Keep in mind that the design is someone you will need to feel comfortable with as you will speak regularly about the product as well as arrange design reviews and meetings throughout the process. Selecting a designer that does not suit your requirements is a costly mistake. A designer needs to understand the basics of product design, have product design experience and a thorough working knowledge of manufacturing processes.

Will My Sketches Work?

Sketches are a great basis for your invention and serve the purpose of trying to convey your thoughts, your idea, to other individuals. However, generally a hand-drawn sketch is not up to par as many individuals will find it difficult to understand, especially if they are thinking in different terms or perhaps do not fully understand the invention.

If you are serious about your idea, then you will need to hire a professional to help you design the final product. Though this can be costly, this is a vital part of the process that is required to bring life to your invention in order to achieve potential success in the market.

In this chapter, I will help you better understand the different types of design as well as ways to ensure that you hire the perfect designer to suit your needs in alignment with your invention.