Concept design has been a focal point of my life since I was young. From the design scrapbook tote, I made in elementary school to the design solutions my dad and I would talk about while doing chores around the farm.
My product philosophy is centered around long-lived products, versatile performance, and minimalist constructions. I believe versatile product performance should create and enable possibilities rather than limitations, I aim to keep my designs stripped of unnecessary details and simple by construction, ideally resulting in a longer product lifetime and easy repairs.
No 01
Research & Analysis
For new projects, I begin by researching current market trends and consumer preferences to understand the target consumer's needs and preferences. Allowing me to identify pain points and areas where new products can provide solutions. Once identified, I move forward to analyzing existing outdoor products to identify gaps in the market or opportunities for improvement to help shape my research findings into possible solutions.
No 02
Conceptualization
Next, I begin by brainstorming a wide range of ideas while considering factors like functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability before moving on to several rounds of concept drawings and reviews before evaluating and refining concepts while considering feasibility, market appeal, and alignment with brand identity.
No 03
Design & Prototypes
Meeting with my team, we will identify concepts to proceed to the prototype stage, Following the refinement stage, I will begin creating detailed technical drawings and specifications for the chosen concepts, including dimensions, materials, and features. meeting with the sample team next will kick off the physical prototypes / mock-ups to test the design's feasibility and gather feedback.
No 04
Material Selection & Testing
While prototyping, It’s important to keep constant communication with brand partners and different factories if we need to source new materials quickly or abruptly change a design aspect. conversations regarding FOB and BOM cost analysis will begin, as the Developer I have a heavy hand in sourcing materials that align with the targeted price of the product. Choosing appropriate materials for the concept involves considering factors like durability, weight, water resistance, and environmental impact as well.
While material selection is underway, testing for new materials is conducted at certified testing facilities to ensure the product meets industry standards and performs well in real outdoor conditions. Field testing is also completed to gather feedback on performance and usability and show where necessary improvements need to happen based on testing and user feedback.
No 05
Tech Packs & Cost Analysis
While material selection and testing are underway, I begin to create detailed design documentation, including technical drawings, specifications, and manufacturing instructions for mass production, including material requirements, tolerances, and quality standards. This part of the process is usually a back-and-forth with the sample team to find the best and most cost-effective way to build the product. If additional testing is needed at this stage, I will work closely with the company's different teams to ensure that the design can be feasibly produced.
As samples get closer to being “final sample approved,” I will begin to collaborate with the PD managers to estimate final production costs and set pricing strategies to maintain profitability. As development comes to a close, the manufacturing process will begin to take place and I will hand off the rest of the project to the Supply Chain team. I will continue to work closely with suppliers and the inventory team to ensure the product is produced according to specifications, quality standards, and timelines.
No 06
Product Launch
Once fully approved by the design team, I continue to maintain a close connection with the marketing and sales teams to plan the product launch, including marketing campaigns, distribution, and sales strategies. Once launched, I will keep in contact with the customer service department to gather customer feedback and use it to inform future iterations and product improvements.
