The 5 most common product design mistakes

Every great product starts with an idea. A light bulb, a bicycle, a smartphone – all these innovations were once just an idea. But there's a long road between an idea and a successful product. And along the way, there are several pitfalls that can slow or even stop the process. If you're in the world of development, design and manufacturing, you know how easily mistakes can destroy not only good ideas, but also budgets and timelines.At Holymer, we've seen many projects over the years - some successful, others less. One thing is for sure: there are mistakes that are repeated yet could have been easily avoided. We want to not only expose these mistakes but also show you how to avoid them. That's why we've compiled a list of the five most common product design mistakes and added specific advice on how to avoid them. So, sit back, let's get started.

1. Unclear goals and requirements = Building without a planImagine you're building a house. Without a plan. Without knowing how many rooms you need, do you want a garage, a pool? How big will be each room? Absurd, right? Yet we often see this approach in product design.Once a client came to us with an idea for a new, unique type of machine. The idea was very interesting, but the specification was missing - who would be the end user? What materials are ideal for production? What features should the product meet? After a series of consultations, we formulated clear goals and requirements together and the process was able to move forward. Without this phase, the project would have remained a vague and later forgotten dream.🔑 How to avoid this? Clearly define what the product needs to solve, who will use it and what features it must have. Before you start drawing the first designs, write down a detailed plan.

2. Skipping prototyping: a risky leap into the unknown"If it works on paper, it must work in real life." We've heard that phrase a thousand times. And each time, it led us to a prototype that revealed fundamental problems. One of our clients was an enthusiast who wanted to make a new kind of furniture for small apartments. On paper, the design looked brilliant - foldable, minimalist, easily portable. But the first prototype showed that the folding mechanism was too complicated for the user. Thanks to the prototype, we were able to modify the design and create a product that was not only functional, but also user-friendly.🔑 How to avoid this?Never underestimate the power of a prototype. Technologies like 3D printing or vacuum casting make it fast and affordable to test ideas. Detect flaws early on rather than in production. The process is then slowed down and returned to the beginning.

3. Ignoring production constraints: Design versus realityA design can be breathtaking, but if it can't be produced, it remains just a great picture. For example, we met with a client who wanted to design a metal product with extremely thin details that would be nearly impossible to produce using traditional methods. Together we sought a compromise - we modified the design to retain its elegance but be technologically possible. The result was reduced production costs and a faster time to market.🔑 How to avoid this?Work with experts who understand not only design but also manufacturing processes. Take available technologies and materials into account at the design stage.

4. Underestimating user comfort: beauty versus usabilityA product may be technically perfect, but if it is uncomfortable, unnecessarily complex or visually unappealing, its success is at risk. One example of this is our virtual reality product project. Functionally, the product was excellent, but its shape and layout of controls were initially unclear to users. With feedback from real users and subsequent adjustments, we created a device that was not only functional, but also intuitive and comfortable to use.🔑 How to avoid this?Involve users in testing, and as soon as possible. Their feedback is invaluable and will help you create a product they will love.

5. Poor communication: a team without a common languagePoor communication is the silent killer of projects. Imagine an orchestra where each musician plays to a different score. Chaos, right? The same is true in product design. If the client and the development team don't understand each other, unnecessary mistakes and frustrations arise. At Holymer, we've come to realize that regular communication and sharing progress is the key to success.🔑 How to avoid this?Create a clear communication plan and regularly consult every step. Share successes but also problems - open communication saves time and money.

What did we say?Designing a product is not a sprint, it's a marathon. It's a combination of creativity, technical expertise and effective collaboration. Avoiding the mistakes we've described means saving time, money and avoiding frustration. If you're looking for a partner to help you navigate this journey without unnecessary obstacles, we're here for you.💡 Holymer - from idea to successful product.