Navigating the complex journey of new product development (NPD) requires more than just technical expertise; it demands a holistic approach that integrates design, engineering, and strategic oversight.
Ian Milligan – Senior Product Design Engineer
Greg Storey – Mechanical Engineer | Associate Principal
At Blender, this comprehensive process is at the heart of our success. We sat down with Ian, our Senior Product Design Engineer, and Greg, our Engineering Lead, to delve into Blender’s unique approach to ensure every product’s success.
What sets Blender’s approach to product development apart?
Ian: Our mission is to fully understand customer needs, set the product vision, and inspire a team to transform that vision into reality. It’s not just about fulfilling service requests; we push back and ask, ‘Why are you doing this?’ to ensure every decision is well-informed and beneficial.
Greg: We can tailor our approach to be highly collaborative or to take the lead in design as requested by the client. We often manage projects from ideation through to product and can focus on any specific phase of development as required.
How do you maintain a strong project brief throughout the development process?
Ian: A clear and detailed brief is essential for successful new product development. We ensure this brief remains a living document, constantly checked and updated to reflect the project’s evolving needs and goals. This way, the project stays focused and on course to deliver a solution that’s ready for the market.
Greg: At the start of every project, we gather all the information and compile a list of product requirements. These requirements are continuously revised based on what we learn through testing and feedback, ensuring we stay aligned with the client’s objectives.
Can you explain Blender’s iterative design process and the concept of ‘failing fast’?
Ian: Failing fast in product development means quickly testing and identifying potential issues in early stages to iterate and improve on. It allows us to refine designs quickly and cost-effectively. For example, we replicate the weight of electronic components in prototypes to test feasibility without committing to expensive manufacturing. This helps us identify and address issues early.”
Greg: Instead of investing heavily in a design that might not work, we test early and often. We prototype, learn, and adjust rapidly. This iterative process ensures that we can deliver a functional and efficient product without unnecessary costs.
How does Blender integrate various expert inputs into the development process?
Ian: We have a network of experts and partners that we bring in at the right time. Whether it’s PCB design or antenna specialists, we integrate their advice seamlessly into the project, ensuring all components work harmoniously.
Greg: Our role is to marry different areas of expertise. We don’t have to be experts in every field, but we know how to ask the right questions and integrate specialist knowledge into the overall product design.
What makes Blender’s approach to client collaboration unique?
Ian: We act as advocates for good design, questioning and refining the client’s ideas to ensure the best outcome. This isn’t about just delivering a service; it’s about achieving the best possible product for our clients.
Greg: We maintain transparency and honesty throughout the project. Our success is measured by the success of our clients, and we’re committed to adding value at every step. This collaborative approach builds trust and leads to better results.
How does Blender ensure a product is market-ready?
Ian: We align product development with market needs and business objectives from the start. This involves detailed market analysis and positioning to ensure the product can be competitive in the market.
Greg: We consider manufacturability from the beginning. By involving our network of suppliers and leveraging our production experience, we ensure the product can be scaled and produced cost-effectively.
Blender’s holistic and collaborative approach to product development is what sets us apart. By maintaining a strong project brief, integrating expert inputs, and using an iterative design process, we ensure that every product is not only market-ready but also poised for success. If you’re looking for a partner to guide you through the complexities of NPD, Blender offers the expertise and dedication to turn your vision into reality.
Ready to bring your product idea to life? Contact Blender today and let’s get started on transforming your ideas into successful market-ready products.
