The Product Development Process

Wunderwerks breaks the product development process into 5 steps. They are: Product Definition, Design, Engineering, Prototyping, and Production.

Product Definition

To begin the project we fill in as many details about your product or invention as possible. The more information that you (the client) can provide upfront, the better. 

We define, as much as possible, the requirements for the finished product. We define functional, aesthetic, and cost requirements; review any existing competition or similar products; and examine any related patents.

Design

The design phase of the project is where we really start to add some direction. We come up with several concepts, focusing on having multiple distinct options for future development. 

Based on our initial conversation, we create options for aesthetics, product function and feel, and even packaging. We then review the options with you and come up with a single best direction forward.

Engineering

Once we have design direction, we begin to create the product in specific detail. We model the design in 3-dimensional space and create manufacturable components while working within the aesthetic, functional, and cost requirements established in the previous steps. 

At this stage, we begin to create engineering documentation to track our changes. We also specify manufacturing processes and materials to fit the function and the budget.

Prototyping

The prototyping phase and engineering phase overlap as ideas are tested and the product is improved. We create prototypes to test materials and performance; confirm aesthetics; and fit-test functional and ergonomic requirements. 

We make improvements to the prototype until the details just right. At the end of the prototype phase, we have a mostly functional, good-looking version of the product that you can actually touch. 

Production

Once we have a design nailed down, we move into the production phase. The most important part of the production process is engineering documentation. 

The engineering documentation communicates exactly what we were thinking when we designed the product, what the part needs to look like, and what are critical dimensions and features that need extra attention. This documentation also includes details regarding the assembly, packaging, and shipment of the product.

First article samples of the production parts are measured to verify that they meet specifications. After this final check and approval, the full series production will begin.