We design products with long life spans. To do so successfully, one must avoid style in favour of originality.

Undertaking a new design project with a client is an exciting and complex process.

Our approach to this process is based on what we call ‘direct design’. We bring 30+ years of experience into each project but still we refrain from interfering with what the client does better himself. Instead we devote our time to our core capabilities.

Needless to say, our knowledge and expertise does neither start nor stop with design. We are both qualified and eager to take an active part in the entire product development process.

1. Explore and Discover

The objective of this initial research phase is to gain a deeper understanding of the problem and uncover possible design solutions.

Ideas start to materialise as soon as we start investigating the problem and exploring the surrounding universe. We produce a great deal of sketches during this phase and as the research evolves we circle in on potential solutions.

Our first presentation will usually consist of a limited number of qualified proposals that showcase various possibilities and approaches. We then decide with the client which ones that are most relevant to pursue.

2. Ideas Turn Physical

Based on the results from phase 1 the purpose of the second phase is to develop actual design suggestions.

We experiment with sketches, build and re-build models until the basic idea presents itself in a clear and attractive design concept.

The second presentation contains of one or more design suggestions in the form of models or renditions as well as outline drawings. These suggestions are then evaluated in collaboration with the client.

3. Suggestions Become Products

The final phase transforms design suggestions into real products.

A concept should never stand in the way of the actual goal, which is to create successful and marketable products. In other words, we keep in mind that the product needs to peak in the store and not in the boardroom.

In cooperation with the client we put the suggestions from phase 2 though a feasibility study. The study will reveal things such as technical challenges to the project, production viability and manufacturing costs. Market viability may also be part of the feasibility study to uncover the commercial potential of the product.

Following the evaluation, and with close support from us, the client proceeds to the initial product development stage. Any obstacles that arise during this process we address by turning challenges into opportunities for further improvement. We remain with the client all the way through the product development process.

Meetings with the client. Share our consumer insight. Understand the situation and define the task.

As customer’s substitute we ask; what makes sense? In experiments, we seek answers.

Ideas are tested – very hands-on.

Hands on – what Works.

Solution-oriented intensive dialogue with the client by meetings, 3d rapid prototyping and sketching.

“If you do like this, it should be possible to make room for the power supply without making the product thicker”

Ongoing meetings with the client. What if … Is it possible to …. Is this the answer to your need…

Valeur Designers