Q: I’ve come up with an idea for a product that feels innovative. What’s the first step I should take?

A: Start by documenting it. Sketch your idea, write down the core function, and explain what problem it solves. Don’t worry about artistry– that’s our job- but get something on paper. The goal is to build an understanding of how the idea will work in the world so you can assess its viability. Who would use this? Why would they care? How does it compare to what’s already on the market?

Q: How do I know if my idea has potential?

A: Think about feasibility, market need, and differentiation. If your idea solves a real problem, in a way that’s meaningfully different from existing products, it’s worth exploring. At our studio, we run lightweight “validation sprints” early on: quick competitor audits, informal user interviews, and rough cost estimates. You don’t need to invest in full-scale research yet, but you should confirm there’s a reason for your idea to exist before you sink a bunch of money into developing it. 

Q: Should I protect my idea before sharing it?

A: Yes, but timing is key. Filing a patent can be expensive, so we suggest having some market validation in place first. You can file an inexpensive provisional patent and set it to start the day your project goes public, which gives you a year of protection to file a proper patent. Always use NDAs (non-disclosure agreements) when sharing sensitive details with partners, manufacturers, or studios. 

We don’t generally suggest getting design patents unless your product is very aesthetics-driven, as they are quite easy to circumvent. 

Q: When does an industrial design studio get involved?

A: Ideally, as soon as you’ve confirmed there’s a real need. A strong design studio can help translate a raw idea into something tangible, through developed sketches, CAD models, user testing, prototypes, and ultimately a manufacturable product. Many entrepreneurs underestimate how many steps are needed to get from concept to production, and design professionals will help navigate these steps strategically.

Q: How much does it cost to develop a product?

A: It depends on complexity. A simple consumer good might take around 10k to design and prototype, while advanced tech devices can require six-figure investments. We encourage frequent user tests and comprehensive market validation to ensure that your investment is worthwhile and to give us the opportunity to pivot if needed. It’s also worth remembering that there are sometimes significant startup costs to mass production, such as tool creation, assembly setup and shipping. In short, launching a product isn’t cheap! But the ROI can be significant and we are committed to helping our clients reach profitability as soon as possible. 

Q: What if I don’t have manufacturing experience?

A: That’s where a studio partnership is really helpful. We don’t just design products; we also connect clients to reliable manufacturers, advise on materials, and help forecast production costs. Often our clients work with us very closely to get their first launch through production, but take the reins for future SKUs once they have the connections and experience in place. 

Q: What’s your best advice for someone with a big idea?

A: Don’t wait for the “perfect moment.” Start small, test fast, and surround yourself with experienced partners who can accelerate your journey. Innovation isn’t about guarding an idea—it’s about making it real, step by step. 

And enjoy it! It’s incredibly satisfying to see your concept become reality. We’ve been at it for a decade and it’s still thrilling to get that first production model in hand. 

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