Product Design

Product design is a strategic decision as the image and profit earning capacity of a small firm depends largely on product design. Once the product to be produced is decided by the entrepreneur the next step is to prepare its design. Product design consists of form and function. The form designing includes decisions regarding its shape, size, color and appearance of the product. The functional design involves the working conditions of the product. Once a product is designed, it prevails for a long time therefore various factors are to be considered before designing it. These factors are listed below: -

(a) Standardization

(b) Reliability

(c) Maintainability

(d) Servicing

(e) Reproducibility

(f) Sustainability

(g) Product simplification

(h) Quality Commensuration with cost

(i) Product value

(j) Consumer quality

(k) Needs and tastes of consumers.

Above all, the product design should be dictated by the market demand. It is an important decision and therefore the entrepreneur should pay due effort, time, energy and attention in order to get the best results.