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If you’ve got an idea for a product, you want to get from the idea stage to the sales stage as soon as possible. But there is always a process to get there, and by taking it steadily to start with, you can push your startup to new heights.
It doesn’t matter what your product idea or niche is, the basic process is the same.
The Idea Stage
The first step is when you come up with the idea. Write down or draw as much as possible. The more you put down, the more real the idea will become. Sometimes, you realize pretty soon that it’s not going to work.
This isn’t a bad thing. The sooner you work out that an idea is just that, an idea with no future, the better. Be harsh and honest with yourself, and you’ll build on an idea until you have something you can work with.
This is when the first design features might show up, but your final product might look very different to your first ideas.
Market Research
Market research should be continued throughout your project, but the sooner it starts, the better. This way, you can identify your target market as well as similar products on the market. You might discover that your product doesn’t fill a need and the niche is overflowing.
Or you might find out that your target market is different from what you expected. All of this is valuable information that should inform the rest of the design process.
Continue with market research as your product develops, no matter what it is. For example, if you’re writing a novel, your market research might involve alpha and beta readers. Ask them for honest feedback.
Design and Prototypes
The design process might be the longest step until sales and marketing, and it’s vital to get it right the first time. You don’t just need to think about how the product looks and functions, but also the parts and materials you need. For example, if you need bearings for your product to function, a manufacturer like Lily Bearing could be your best friend.
You also need to create prototypes and test them under different conditions. AI testing can be incredibly helpful, because you can create digital prototypes without spending a lot of money and make sure it’s functional before moving forward.
Production
Once you have a design that you know works, you can move onto the production stage. Balance productivity and efficiency. Don’t sacrifice quality or safety for speed, because this can cause issues in the long run.
Sales
Finally, it’s time to sell your product.
Use marketing techniques to attract customers and make your product stand out from the crowd. Tell a story about your product and how it can help people.
Make sure you price your product properly and treat your customers well. Over time, you will generate a profit and can move onto your next product.
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