01

Introduction & Design Brief

Identify and clearly define the problem or opportunity that the design aims to address. Address the needs, goals, and constraints of the project.

02

Research & Ideation

Review existing product solutions and market trends. Generate concept ideas through brainstorming sessions, mind mapping, collaborative discussions and preliminary sketches.

03

Concept Development & Detail Design

Develop detailed concepts, including preliminary CAD layouts and where applicable, initial models or prototypes. Review and shortlist concepts that align with the project

brief and client goals.

04

Prototype & Testing

Fabricate a part or full prototype of the selected concept to test functionality and  assess form and ergonomics. Samples may be used to seek feedback from potential users. Adjust design and refine as agreed.

05

Production Documentation

Create detailed production documentation, including CAD files, drawing specifications, and other material and component information as necessary.

06

Production Process Implementation

Collaborate as required with manufacturing teams and other suppliers. Evaluate the performance of first production and liaise with suppliers to optimise details as required.

01

Product Styling

Product styling is often a vital ingredient for the commercial success of a product and is at its most successful when in harmony with the functional qualities of the design and appears to describe the product function. The design could be as simple as the Nielsen Design “Clark” sink plug, elegant like the ChessPlus player pieces or as complex as the Air Traffic Control workstations for Singapore (all Design Award winning products).

02

Product Engineering

Product engineering is typically part of most industrial design projects when the emphasis is placed on performance, cost-effectiveness and manufacturability. It forms a large portion of the work in a project such as in the JLG LiftPod or Microcoin, coin validator. Innovation may extend beyond the specific function of the device to include new materials or production techniques. 

03

Ergonomic Design

Ergonomic design is a foundation for all Nielsen Design projects. It is fundamental to some products such as kitchen handles and a critical component of design where safety and optimum efficiency is required such as Air Traffic Control workstations. 

04

CAD Documentation

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software is the primary design tool used for documenting our designs for prototype fabrication and mass production. CAD models form a faithful digital representation of the final product and are optimised for the materials and technology of production. Nielsen Design extensive experience in this critical area of design. 

05

Prototype Fabrication

Prototypes are an essential part of the development process for evaluating the appearance and function of a product prior to the capital expense of tooling and production. Nielsen Design typically use a combination of our in-house 3D printing capabilities and workshop facilities to fabricate models. For clients requiring multiple samples for market testing, we can engage external service providers. 

06

In-house 3D Printing

Nielsen Design has several in-house 3D printers suited to multiple materials, build sizes and tolerances. The primary advantage is rapid feedback and a more productive product optimisation process. 

07

Intellectual Property Liaison

Nielsen Design often work closely with Patent Attorneys to assist clients with their Intellectual property protection. This includes review of draft patents, generation of illustrations and preparation of product function descriptions. 

08

Production Liaison

Some of our clients have their own supplier contacts for tooling and production whilst others are happy to work with our established industry contacts. In both instances, we typically engage with supplier during the tooling phase and later in the process to test and optimise first samples ready for mass production.