How to build a product prototype

Do I need a prototype?

Before we tell you the great things about using a prototype, we want you to proceed with caution. Depending on the type of product you’re planning to create, a prototype can be extremely useful, or it can be an expensive waste of time and money.

The key is knowing when and how to start the ball rolling with your prototype

If you’re developing a physical product then it’s very likely that you’ll need (and want) to build a prototype at some stage before you reach final production. The key is knowing when and how to start the ball rolling with your prototype.

Building a prototype can be pricey. You may even have to create a number of prototypes along the way. For that reason, you want to make sure that you’re in a strong position before you start building. 

Research is the name of the game. You want to be as confident as you possibly can be that your product idea is a good one. And, most importantly, that there’s a market and appetite for what you want to create.

Here are a few tips to make sure you’re ready to build a prototype:

• Carry out lots of user research first.
• Do your homework on the competition and your target market.
• Conduct surveys with your target audience to test the water for demand for your product.
• Organise interactive workshops with potential customers to explore your idea and get their feedback.
• Listen to all user feedback and refine your product idea accordingly.
• Prioritise design features and functionality based on user feedback.

Benefits of using a prototype

A prototype of your new product can be worth its weight in gold. And the process of building it can give you some brilliant insights and foresight, before you get to manufacturing your product for real. 

Some of the benefits we’ve found many inventors have enjoyed thanks to building and using their prototypes include:

It saves you money

A decent prototype allows you to get detailed feedback from key stakeholders based on a real life experience of your product. It will cost you a lot less than shelling out to manufacture the final product.

Building a prototype will challenge you to think of practical factors and refine your design when you encounter flaws

Your idea comes to life

You understand your idea, but sometimes it’s hard to translate that into words. And some people will struggle to picture how 2D designs will work in the flesh. With a working prototype you don’t have to worry about any of that, you can show them instead.

A chance to test in person

The theory of your product might sound perfect on paper, but building a working model is a whole different ball game. Building a prototype will challenge you to think of practical factors and allow you to refine your design when you encounter flaws (which are inevitable).

A part of this testing is the performance of different materials. You might have planned to work with metal, but in reality plastic might perform a lot better. These details can be figured out when you use prototypes.

Be taken more seriously

Having a working prototype in your hand shows you mean business. Investors, customers and colleagues will all sit up a little straighter and pay more attention if you’re showing them a real life example of your product idea.

The building process

How do you start building your first prototype? Well, that depends on your product idea, budget and goals. For some inventors, creating a homemade prototype is enough to get them going. Though, whatever your situation, at some stage you’re going to need to build a ‘pre-production prototype’ if you’re planning to manufacture your product.

There’s no fixed way to start building a prototype but, if you’re going to work with a prototype manufacturer, here’s the approach we’d suggest.

1. Research – Carry out lots of thorough user and market research
2. Designs – Create initial designs for your product idea
3. Discuss – Speak to prototyping specialists for their professional advice and to discuss specific costs. You could also contact manufacturers to see if they offer a prototyping service.
4. Review – With details of your options and costs for building your prototype, review your budget and make sure you’re comfortable with the prototype plan.
5. Build – Once you’re happy, give the green light and let them build your prototype. 

Finding a prototype manufacturer

When you’re looking for a company to build your prototype, it’s important to choose wisely. Make sure they have lots of experience building similar products to yours. Check examples of their work and discuss details of what exactly is included in their quotes.

The cost of building a prototype can vary massively, so it’s good to understand what your specific design will cost to build. Complexity of design, size, quantity, and functionality will all affect the price you pay.

Always shop around to get fair and competitive quotes. Don’t just go for the first company you speak to. Research the options and choose the company you feel offers the best combination of value and quality of service.

If you’re developing a particularly innovative new product you might be considering a patent. To find out more, check out our guide on how to patent a product.