Product Design Definition, History, and Tools
Design is all around us, and it’s an essential part of our lives. We often take design for granted, but the good design makes our world a better place. It can make products more user-friendly, communication is more effective, and life more enjoyable. In this article, we’ll explore the definition of product design, its history, and some of the tools designers use to create beautiful and useful products.
source: dribbble.com
Product design definition
Product design is the process of creating new products. It involves ideation, research, prototyping, and testing to create a product that meets the needs of users or customers. The goal of product design is to make products more effective, efficient, and appealing to users.
Product designer VS product manager. People usually mess up these two terms. A product designer is responsible for the look, feel, and usability of a product. They work with user research, interaction design, visual design, and engineering to create products that are both useful and beautiful.
A product manager is responsible for the business side of things. They develop product strategy, set goals, track progress, and make sure the product is profitable.
History of product design
Product design has a long and fascinating history. It began with the first tools and objects created by early humans. Throughout history, product design has been shaped by technological advances, changing needs and preferences, and the creativity of designers.
Some of the most iconic products in history were designed in the 20th century. This was a time of great change when new materials and manufacturing techniques were developed. This allowed designers to create products that were more innovative than ever before.
Some of the most influential product designers of the 20th century include Raymond Loewy, Dieter Rams, and Jony Ive. They created products that are still in use today and have inspired other designers to push the boundaries of what is possible.
Tools used in product design
Product designers use a variety of tools to create their products. These include CAD software, 3D printers, and laser cutters. They also use prototyping and testing to ensure that their products meet the needs of users.
CAD software is used to create 2D and 3D models of products. This allows designers to see how their products will look and function before they are manufactured.
3D printers are used to create prototypes of products. This allows designers to test the form and function of their products before they are mass-produced.
Laser cutters are used to create precise parts for products. This allows designers to create products that are both strong and lightweight.
Testing is essential to ensure that products are safe and easy to use. designers use a variety of methods, including user testing and usability testing, to evaluate their products.
User testing is conducted with actual users of the product. This allows designers to see how well the product works in real-world conditions.
Usability testing is conducted with a small group of users. This allows designers to identify any problems with the product and make improvements before it is released to the general public.
How to become a product designer
Now that you know more about product design, you may be wondering how you can become a designer. There are a few different ways to enter the field.
One way is to get a degree in product design. This will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in the field. Moreover, it will allow you to work with experienced designers and learn from them.
There are also many online courses and resources that can teach you about product design.
These can be a great way to learn about the basics of the field and get started on your career:
- The online course “Introduction to Product Design” offered by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a great place to start.
- The online course “Design Thinking for Business Innovation” offered by the University of Virginia (UVA) is another great option.
- Finally, the book “Designing Products People Love” by Scott Brown is a great resource for learning about product design.
Benefits of being a product designer
Product design is a rewarding career. It offers the opportunity to use your creativity to make products that improve people’s lives. Moreover, it allows you to work with a team of talented professionals and learn from them.
Another great benefit of being a product designer is the salary. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a product designer is $85,277 per year. But if you`re going only for money, be aware of burnout.
Product design is also a great way to make a difference in the world. By designing products that are sustainable and accessible, you can help make the world a better place.
It is a challenging field, but it is also very rewarding. If you are creative and have a passion for problem-solving, then it may be the perfect career for you.
source: googleusercontent.com
What kinds of product design jobs exist?
While product design jobs vary from company to company, they typically include several roles that you might not see in other companies. For Example:
User experience (UX) designers
Designing products that are easy to use and meet the needs of users is essential to the success of any product. UX designers work on everything from user research to wireframing to user testing.
Graphic designer
Graphic designers create the visual identity of products. They work on everything from logos to product packaging to marketing materials. Moreover, they often collaborate closely with UX designers to create a cohesive user experience.
Human factors engineer
Human factors engineers ensure that products are safe and easy to use. They work on everything from ergonomics to usability testing. Also, they often collaborate with UX designers to create products that are both safe and easy to use.
Product designer
Product designers are responsible for the overall design of a product. They work on everything from the initial concept to the final product. Moreover, they usually work with other designers, engineers, UX researchers and marketing professionals to bring their products to life.
Interaction designers
Interaction designers are responsible for designing the way users interact with products. This includes everything from the buttons on a website to the layout of a mobile app. However, interaction designers often collaborate closely with UX designers to create a cohesive user experience.
Visual designers
Visual designers create the look and feel of products. They work on everything from typography to color schemes to icon design. Additionally, they are creating products that are both visually appealing and easy to use.
As you can see, there are many different types of product design jobs. And, each type of job requires a different set of skills and knowledge. Moreover, each type of job offers its own set of challenges and rewards.
Final Thoughts
Product design is a rewarding career that offers the opportunity to use your creativity to make products that improve people’s lives. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in product design, there are many different ways to get started. You can get a degree in product design, take some online courses, or learn on the job. Whichever route you choose, be sure to learn as much as you can about the field. And, don’t forget to enjoy the process!
