Product Prototype
10 Mistakes to Avoid When Creating a Product Prototype
Henry Ford’s invention of the assembly line revolutionized manufacturing in 1913. As long as humans have manufactured products, they have started with a prototype.
A product prototype is an early model of a product. Prototypes are used to test and refine the design before it goes into full production.
The success of a product often depends on the quality of its prototype. As a result, prototyping is a crucial step in product development.
Creating a product prototype can also be a challenging task. It’s easy to make mistakes without proper preparation.
If you want to launch a new product, this article will help you avoid costly mistakes. Read on for a complete guide to what you should avoid when creating a prototype!
How Do Prototypes Work?
A prototype is an initial version of a product created to check the design and functionality.
The main purpose of a prototype is to provide a visual representation of the product. Manufacturers also use the prototype to test a product’s features. They consider the design and manufacturing processes before producing the final product.
Manufacturers create prototypes using various methods, including:
- Manual fabrication
- 3D printing
- Computer-aided design (CAD) software
The method will depend on the complexity and specific requirements of the project. Once the prototype is complete, the design team can identify any issues or areas for improvement.
Prototypes play a crucial role in the product development process. They can help reduce the risk of production errors, improve product quality, and reduce costs. This way, manufacturers can identify and address issues early on in the process.
Additionally, prototypes are a way to present the product to potential investors and customers. The prototype can help show the potential of the product and secure funding and support.
1. Not Fully Understanding the Product
One of the most common mistakes made when creating a product prototype is not having a clear understanding of the product. This can lead to design flaws and issues with functionality, which can result in wasted time and resources.
A lack of clarity on what the product does and what it should look like can result in a prototype that doesn’t meet the desired specifications.
To avoid this mistake, designers should have a complete understanding of the product. This includes its intended use, target market, and any specific requirements.
It’s helpful to conduct market research to understand what competitors offer. Designers should also consider what consumer needs the market fails to meet.
Having a clear understanding of the product will help ensure that the prototype design aligns with the intended purpose. This will also make it easier to identify and address any potential issues during the prototyping process.
2. Ignoring the Manufacturing Process
Another common mistake when creating a product prototype is ignoring the manufacturing process. The design of a product prototype has to account for the method of manufacturing used for mass production.
Ignoring the process can result in a prototype that’s difficult or even impossible to manufacture. These difficulties can lead to costly delays and even a complete rework.
To avoid this mistake, it is important to consider the manufacturing process during the prototype design stage. Research and test manufacturing methods to determine the most efficient and cost-effective process.
You should also optimize the design for the chosen manufacturing process. This will help you create a product you can produce in large quantities.
Take the time to consider the manufacturing process during the prototype design stage. This will help ensure that the final product is easy to manufacture efficiently and cost-effectively.
3. Choosing the Wrong Manufacturing Partner
While many companies handle manufacturing and prototyping in-house, others outsource the production.
A key aspect of the product development process is finding the right manufacturing partner. A manufacturing partner can help bring the product prototype to life with the highest quality standards.
Choosing the wrong manufacturing partner can result in significant problems. The wrong manufacturing partner may produce poor quality, delays, and increased costs.
Be sure to research and carefully select the right manufacturing partner. Assess their experience, capacity, and quality control processes.
You should also consider the location of your partner. Working with a manufacturer in a different time zone or region can impact communication. Communication issues can then lead to unexpected challenges.
Consider the cost of production when choosing a manufacturing partner. Working with a low-cost manufacturer may seem like a good option at first. Choose carefully, as it may also result in lower-quality products and production issues.
A more expensive manufacturer may provide a higher level of quality and support. It may also result in higher production costs.
4. Underestimating the Cost of Manufacturing
When creating a product prototype, it can be easy to underestimate the cost of manufacturing. This can lead to significant financial problems like insufficient funding and profits.
The cost of manufacturing includes not only the cost of materials and labor, but also tooling, shipping, and other indirect costs.
Make sure you get an accurate estimate of the cost of manufacturing before starting production. Manufacturing costs include the cost of materials and labor. You should also account for any other indirect costs associated with the manufacturing process.
Additionally, take into account any potential changes in the cost of materials or labor over time.
For example, fluctuations in the cost of raw materials can impact the total cost of production. Be prepared for unexpected changes in the market.
Taking the time to accurately estimate the cost of manufacturing is a crucial step in prototype production. This will ensure that there’s enough funding to bring the product to market and that the final product is profitable.
Having an accurate cost estimate can also help you find investors. Investors will be more comfortable funding a prototype if they know how much you plan to spend.
5. Insufficient Research on Chinese Manufacturers
China is a popular destination for product manufacturing. Many Chinese manufacturers offer low-cost production options.
Many companies are wary of working with Chinese manufacturers. Outsourcing manufacturing overseas sometimes results in quality control issues and intellectual property theft.
Thoroughly research any potential Chinese manufacturers before entering into a partnership. This includes evaluating their experience, capacity, and quality control processes.
You should also consider their reputation within the industry. Think about the legal and regulatory environment in China and any potential production risks.
Communicate with the manufacturer and establish clear expectations and protocols for quality control. Discuss regular inspections and testing to ensure reliable quality standards.
China-based manufacturing facilities can of course produce high-quality products. There are plenty of reputable Chinese manufacturers to choose from as long as you research thoroughly.
Many facilities based in China have completely western management and ownership.
6. Creating a Prototype That’s Difficult to Manufacture
Having a well-designed prototype is essential for successful product manufacturing. Prototype designs not optimized for manufacturing can lead to significant challenges in production.
It’s crucial to design the prototype with the manufacturing process in mind.
Consider the materials, tooling, and processes required for production. The cost and lead time associated with each should also be a factor.
Think about potential challenges or limitations that may arise in the manufacturing process. You might encounter several issues, such as:
- Tooling limitations
- Material availability
- Manufacturing complexity
Additionally, you should work closely with the manufacturing partner throughout the design process.
They may advise changes to the design to make it more cost-effective or easier to manufacture. You might reduce the number of components or use simpler manufacturing processes.
When you consult with your manufacturing partner, don’t be too committed to a particular design element. Although you have a clear vision for your product, the manufacturing team will help you keep it workable.
7. Not Having a Cost-Effective Prototype Design
For any product prototype, you should consider the cost of manufacturing. Work to create a design that is both functional and cost-effective.
A design that is not cost-effective can lead to increased costs and reduced profitability. This can make it difficult to bring the product line to market.
To keep the design cost-effective, consider the cost of materials, tooling, and labor when designing the prototype.
You may need to alter the design to reduce costs. More cost-effective materials or simplifying the manufacturing process can keep costs down.
Think about the cost implications of different design choices. Make informed decisions that balance cost and functionality.
Designers should conduct a cost-benefit analysis before moving forward with a design. With the chances of an economic recession going up, it’s crucial to keep costs low.
Compare the cost of different materials and manufacturing processes. If necessary, explore alternative manufacturing options.
8. Lack of Scalability in Designs
In the design stage, you should consider the potential for future growth of your product. A scalable design will help you meet future demand in the manufacturing stage.
A prototype design that is not scalable can lead to production limitations. This makes it difficult to expand into other markets.
Design your product to be easily modified or expanded in the future. Use materials and components that are readily available.
You should also consider the potential for automation and other manufacturing improvements. At later stages of production, a design you can automate production for can greatly increase your profit margins.
9. Not Protecting Intellectual Property
When you come up with the idea for a product, take steps to ensure you keep control over your intellectual property. Any patents, trademarks, and copyrights are a part of the intellectual property (IP) of the product.
Failure to protect IP can lead to disputes, expensive legal battles, and the loss of ownership rights over the product. Financial and legal issues like these can destroy a product launch.
To avoid IP issues, get a legal review to protect the IP of the product. File for patents, trademarks, and copyrights, and keep any confidential information secure.
Consider working with an IP attorney to review the prototype design. A legal expert can identify any potential IP issues or infringement risks.
Keep in mind the IP implications of working with a manufacturing partner. This is especially important when dealing with manufacturers in other countries.
Steps you can take to protect IP include:
- Adding confidentiality clauses in contracts
- Conducting due diligence on the manufacturer
- Taking steps to protect the IP of the product during the manufacturing process.
10. Not Having a Plan for the Product Line
Before you take a prototype into the manufacturing stage, work with your team to create a production plan. Have a plan for the product line and how the product will fit into the strategy of the business.
A lack of planning for the product line can lead to confusion and inconsistencies. Poor planning can stop an enterprise from making it past the prototype stage.
Create a product line plan that outlines any future products and how they’ll fit together. Consider the target market, and determine the potential for future growth and expansion.
Ways to Avoid Prototype Mistakes
Making a mistake in the prototyping process can stop a product before it gets off the ground. You can use several strategies to avoid making mistakes at this stage.
- Plan and research thoroughly
- Work with a trusted manufacturing partner
- Budget in advance
- Consider scalability
- Protect your intellectual property
- Plan for the product line
Precision OEM Manufacturing
Creating a product prototype is an exciting and challenging process. It requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality.
Many common mistakes during the process can lead to issues with production. Mistakes can cause costly delays, poor quality, and difficulty in bringing the product to market. By avoiding the mistakes outlined in this post, you’re sure to have a successful product launch.
Shield Works has provided customized manufacturing and assembly services for nearly 18 years. Contact us today to learn more about starting production on your prototype!
Why China is the Top Country for Product Prototyping
Although there are prototyping services in numerous countries around the world, China provides one-of-a-kind advantages to entrepreneurs and manufacturers alike. Let’s take a look at why China is the best place to prototype products before they launch globally.
Labor cost is lower
While labor costs in China are still cheaper than those of other high-tech economies like Japan and South Korea, they use more advanced machinery and better manufacturing processes to make products cheaper, faster, and higher in quality. Allowing these firms to set lower prices, such efficiency come from better use of technology (like robots) and closer monitoring of labor schedules to minimize downtime (i.e. breaks taken by workers). These different factors increased efficiency and lower wages, which mean that Chinese manufacturers are capable of supplying a higher quantity of products at a lower cost than anywhere else in the world.
They take care of it all
Some Chinese prototyping shops provide all the help you need to build a prototype. On-staff designers, 3D printers, and injection molders will give your ideas form and shape. if you purchase a package deal, they’ll do all of your work for you. Startup founders love this because it lets them focus on what they do best. Even better: specialized prototyping companies are popping up in increasing numbers, with faster-than-normal manufacturing processes, which work well for small startups aiming to get specific things accomplished.
For example, if you’re building a medical device, you might want to partner with a firm that specializes in the design and manufacture of medical devices. These firms know the details that the regulatory agencies such as FDA need to make sure that you’re following their protocols and as such you don’t need to concern yourselves with that information. Entrepreneurs who are launching hardware-based products should work closely with these experts from the earliest phases of the project.
Fast delivery
Inexpensive prototyping and large-scale manufacturing allow product developers to innovate at an unprecedented pace. Chinese factories offer lower costs, shorter lead times, and larger production volumes than other countries. Companies like Apple have established relationships with Chinese manufacturers for over a decade. Today, a large percentage of Apple’s products are manufactured in China—including final assembly for some parts (e.g., cables and batteries). While there are many factors that come into play when deciding where to locate production, high speed of prototype delivery has become increasingly important as consumers demand better turnaround times on pre-orders.
Preloaded technology
Since they make 3D printers with helpful software to make them easier to use, Chinese manufacturers also preload their 3D engineers with more industry experience, because they typically hire skilled workers who are experienced with manufacturing similar products or work with experienced consultants. Due to its large population, the talent pool in China is nothing comparable to those in other countries. It’s been difficult to close this sizable gap.
Innovative culture
While in the past China’s reputation has been that of a country that has stolen technologies and has relied on a copier culture, it’s now on the verge of becoming a leading economic power. Beijing’s top leaders are beginning to think that innovation, not imitation, can be the solution to some of the country’s problems and that it can create new industries and jobs, as well. They believe that innovation will lead to economic growth and more opportunities. nearly 700 universities in China have revamped their names to incorporate innovation, signifying an emphasis on teaching for research and development. Only a few years ago, these schools focused solely on providing the lowest common denominator of engineering training, churning out manufactured products for countries around the world.
Home-made tech forces
One of the reasons why Chinese startups can prototype at such an accelerated rate is that they take advantage of local tech hubs. These facilities allow startups to rent office space, equipment, and more–eliminating expensive overhead costs while also fostering a sense of community and support. For a tech startup’s success in prototyping its product, being closer to industry experts and resources as well as proximity to large financial markets might be just as important as proximity to Silicon Valley’s startups and innovation.
For instance, take Huaqiangbei in Shenzhen for prototyping needs. With processors, motors, sensors, and circuit boards, this massive market has all of the electronic components imaginable. This place would be like a godsend for an entrepreneur! Don’t worry, those needing a startup engineer or product designer needn’t walk the thin line of distributors or manufacturers – they can take to the equally harrowing but far shorter task of searching Huaqiangbei Street instead! Of course, they also gain an attractive other benefit, though access to information.
Shield Works’ in-house engineering team is well-seasoned and bilingual, and we have over 17 years of product prototyping experience in China. Contact us now for more!
5 Reasons Why Making Your Product Prototype in China Is A Good Choice
Are you looking to make your product prototype in China? If so, your decision might be the right one, but there are several factors that must be taken into consideration beforehand, such as cost and the amount of time needed to complete the project. Let’s take a look at 5 reasons why making your product prototype in China may be your best choice.
Advanced Technology
China has been increasingly investing in advanced technology, making it a go-to destination for product prototyping. With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced engineers, China can create high-quality prototypes quickly and efficiently. If you need to make changes to your prototype, all you have to do is send the design files over the internet and let them know what changes you want made. Advanced technology means that more complex products like robotic arms or 3D printers are readily available as well.
They also have a huge variety of materials including metals, plastics, ceramics, textiles and wood, which means you can be experimental in the process. For example, if you wanted a metal tumbler but one was not readily available on Alibaba’s website, they could use stainless steel sheets to create one for you.
Prototyping speed
There are a few reasons for this. The vast majority of Chinese manufacturers are extremely efficient and organized. They can usually turn around a prototype much faster than their Western counterparts.
Second, the cost of labor is much lower in China, so the cost of making last minute change will be lower and more feasible as well. Chinese manufacturers are often more flexible and willing to make changes to the prototype than Western manufacturers.
There is also a wide range of manufacturing capabilities in China, so you’re likely to find a supplier that can meet your specific needs. Meanwhile, many Chinese manufacturers have experience working with Western companies, so they’re accustomed to meeting Western standards.
Cost Saving
When it comes to cost savings, making your product prototype in China is a no-brainer. Chinese manufacturers are able to produce high-quality prototypes at a fraction of the cost of their Western counterparts. As we mentioned above, the low cost of labor in China means that you can get your prototype made for a fraction of what it would cost to have it made in the West.
The low cost of labor also means that there’s no need to worry about sourcing locally and incurring additional expenses by having everything shipped over. Plus, if you’re working with a larger company and require different types of prototyping services like 3D printing or metal casting, as they likely already have all these materials on hand, that can also save you even more!
International and Industrial Experience
If you’re looking for an experienced and reliable manufacturing partner to help bring your product to life, China is a great option. You’ll benefit from China’s vast pool of international and industrial experience, as the country is home to some of the world’s most advanced manufacturing facilities and technologies. The vast majority of Chinese manufacturers are ISO 9001 certified, so you can be confident in their quality control processes.
You’ll also find that China has factories that specialize in producing various components for both domestic and export markets, which will allow you to save on costs by using only one factory. Even if your company is small or medium-sized, it will have no problem finding a manufacturer with the capacity to produce your order.
Most factories have relationships with overseas buyers who they work with regularly; this means they can give you priority service even if they are busy with other clients at the time. In fact, many factories have English speaking staff members who will work closely with you throughout production process.
Faster Delivery
For many startups and small businesses, the biggest advantage of working with a Chinese manufacturer is not only the speed at which they can get product prototype made, but also delivered. This can ensure more flexibility in reviewing and making more spontaenous changes.
Many Chinese manufacturers use logistics and shipping companies to ensure quick deliveries, with a wide selection of ports or even airports to ship, wherever your prototype is made. Their logistical networks are very expansive and spreads all around the world, so no matter you are located, your prototype can always manage to arrive in time!
All of these aforementioned factors make China an attractive option for entrepreneurs who are looking to create a new product prototype. If you want your company to take off, and you’re considering which country would be the best fit for your new project, it’s worth investing some time into learning more about China’s cost-effective benefits. All it takes is a reliable and experienced manufacturing company, such as Shield Works. We have over 17 years of experience of prototyping and international team that ensures smooth communication. Reach out to us if you’d like to know more!
Why China is Leading the Way in Product Prototyping
It’s no secret that China has become the dominant manufacturing force in the world, but many people still don’t realize how far this dominance reaches and what it can mean for your business. Product prototyping, for example, is something we take for granted in America, but China has taken it to a whole new level with their affordable and precise methods of product prototyping. With this knowledge, you can feel confident in your company’s ability to produce high-quality products at the speed of light by using Chinese product prototyping services.
Low-Cost Labor
While labor is not cheap in China, it’s still cheaper than similar manufacturing centers like Japan and South Korea. Using more advanced equipment and more efficient production processes, Chinese manufacturers are able to make their products faster, cheaper, and of higher quality than anywhere else on Earth. This allows them to price their services much lower than other countries. These efficiencies come from better use of technology (like robotics) and closer monitoring of labor schedules to minimize downtime (i.e., workers on breaks). The combination of these factors—lower costs from efficiency improvements plus lower wages—means that Chinese manufacturers can provide more products at a lower cost than anywhere else in the world.
One-Stop Shopping
You can get everything you need to prototype a product in one place. Many Chinese prototyping shops have engineers, graphic designers, 3D printers and injection molders on staff; once you sign up for a package deal, they’ll coordinate all aspects of your project from start to finish. This allows startup founders to do more with less. Even better: there are increasingly specialized prototyping companies that provide rapid manufacturing services for startups tackling a specific industry vertical.
For example, if you’re building a medical device, it makes sense to partner with a manufacturer that specializes in medical device design and manufacturing. These firms know exactly what’s required by regulatory agencies such as FDA so your team doesn’t have to worry about those details. Startups working on hardware projects should definitely consider partnering with these specialists early on in their development cycle.
Fast Delivery
Inexpensive prototyping and large-scale manufacturing allow product developers to innovate at an unprecedented pace. Chinese factories offer lower costs, shorter lead times, and larger production volumes than other countries. Companies like Apple have established relationships with Chinese manufacturers for over a decade. Today, nearly all of Apple’s products are manufactured in China—including final assembly for some parts (e.g., cables and batteries). While there are many factors that come into play when deciding where to locate production, high speed of prototype delivery has become increasingly important as consumers demand better turnaround times on pre-orders.
Preloaded Technology
Chinese manufacturers have preloaded their 3D printers with software to make them easier to use. They’ve also preloaded their engineers with more industry experience, as they tend to hire skilled workers who are versed in traditional manufacturing and creating similar products—or at least work with experts who are. Given the size of the population, the talent pool in China is nothing comparable to other countries. Such a huge gap can be difficult to close.
Culture of Innovation
The Chinese are traditionally known for copying or outright stealing Western technologies. But that’s all changing as China transitions into a technological powerhouse on its own right. Beijing’s top leaders have started to believe that innovation, not imitation, can help to solve some of their country’s problems and create new industries as well. They know that innovation can lead to economic growth and more jobs; over 700 universities across China have integrated innovation into their names, signifying an emphasis on education for research and development (R&D). Just a few years ago, these schools were focused on training engineers by rote—and churning out products manufactured elsewhere.
Local Tech Hubs
One reason why Chinese entrepreneurs are able to prototype at an impressive rate is because many Chinese startups utilize local tech hubs. These facilities allow a company to rent office space, equipment, and more – eliminating expensive overhead costs while also fostering a sense of community and support. Silicon Valley may have its perks, but when it comes to product prototyping, being closer to industry experts and resources might be just as important as proximity to large financial markets. For example, take Shenzhen’s Huaqiangbei Market for Electronics Components. This massive market features almost every kind of electronic component imaginable, from processors to motors and sensors to circuit boards. It’s like an entrepreneur’s paradise! There’s no need for a startup engineer or product designer to go through a distributor or manufacturer if they can just walk down Huaqiangbei Street instead! But there’s another benefit that makes Huaqiangbei so attractive: information sharing.
Shield Works has over 16 years of product prototyping in China and our n-house engineering team is both well-seasoned and bilingual. If interested, please feel free to contact us!