The only certain fact in the product development world is change. If you like a challenge, consider diving into the ever-evolving technology market. Nowadays, with so many new available ways to build a product, there’s constant pressure to act faster, smaller, better and efficiently than in the past. And you’ll need to do it before a competitor beats you to the market. 

How do we make sure the features and technology we choose are the best solution for our customers? Staying on top of the latest trends happening in the market is a great start. If you know how it’s changing, you can evolve with it. Simply put, knowledge is power.

8 Product Development Trends to Watch

Software

Although hardware is quite complex in its own right, today’s product developers are putting much more effort into software. As new software applications and updates occur, product development teams are faced with interesting new dynamics and how that could affect the products they build.

Smart Products

Ever since the internet rose to prominence, and thanks to Steve Jobs, consumers expect more intelligent products. Everything, from watches to home appliances is being designed with smarter tools and software. Today’s product development teams will need to be adept at both. 

Globalization

As product developers become increasingly more concerned about building economies of scale, their desire to release their items in markets around the globe will grow. Teams will become more dispersed as companies go to where the talent lives. The same concept applies for finding the best place to manufacture parts. Companies who are able to broaden their innovative resources will fare well.

Device Networks

The consumer market is much less concerned with stand-alone products than those that function seamlessly as a network of devices. Welcome to the new world of product ecosystems. If we can design new products that meet those needs, we are already one step ahead.

Privacy Concerns

Remember the Tylenol cyanide-lacing tragedy? A breach in the Johnson & Johnson supply chain brought to light the very real cyber security dangers that companies face today. Adopting precautions is the best way to combat any potential threats. From the start, you must develop solid privacy requirements and instill the appropriate measures to keep your data safe.

User Experience

Today’s products are smart. They are connected and loaded with sensors. These sensors are capable of gathering mass amounts of data. The data shows us better insights into creating unique customer experiences. There’s a shift in the design thought process that favors user experience over physical appearance.

3D Printing & Simulationt

As 3D printing becomes more accessible and affordable, many companies are relying on its digital capabilities for prototyping. This is crucial in the early stages of the product design process as it helps communicate the design intent to manufacturers and investors. Engineering simulation is also being used increasingly to virtually test and optimize products in the early design phase through numerical data.

Regulations

Product regulation is another complex and ever-changing layer in the product design process. Keeping in mind that regulations vary by jurisdiction, it is crucial to plan ahead for any materials you will need to acquire. For example, some areas may have a limit on or restriction on a particular material you are using in your product. Tracking the use of these materials and properly reporting them to regulatory authorities often requires a sophisticated Product Lifecycle Planning (PLM) system. 

 

There are so many considerations when designing and developing a new product in today’s market. But, the good news is that you don’t have to go at it alone. At SnS Design, our experienced team can help you evolve your product through each stage. 

We make it our business to stay on top of the latest trends in the market.

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