Aesthetics can entice people to buy a product. But more than this element, the long term usability of a product is something that people consider — the reason why you should take 3D product design seriously.

3D product design defined

A 3D product design is like art and science combined. But instead of visuals taking the center stage, it is the main purpose and functionality of the product that is more important. To make its definition simpler, read these words of Henry Wu, a Product Design lead at Hubspot:

“A product designer, at its core, is a problem solver.”

Product design delves into real-life problems — what makes people’s lives difficult — and find out ways to help them achieve a simpler, easier, or high-quality life. Product designers often look for and establish a link between the user and the environment then develop or invent an object that would solve the problem. To make it effective, you have to remember that you are designing things for people. As Steve Jobs said, “Design is not just what it looks and feels like. The design is how it works.” By taking this into consideration, only then can you truly create something useful, if not revolutionary.

You can give life to your ideas by sketching it into a paper. Once you’re done with this, you can work on your prototype. This is the early sample of the product which you can use as the basis for the remaining processes or improvements. It can help you evaluate and test the design, clarify production costs and issues, sell your idea or solution to investors, and apply early for a patent.

Creating product design in 3D form or 3D model, is also a significant part of the process, aside from going straight into making its prototype.

Why should you create product designs in 3D form?

Two-dimensional drawings are classic but the three-dimensional ones are more realistic and practical to create. There are a number of reasons why, as enumerated below.

Reduced manufacturing time

The presence of a digital file can shorten manufacturing time. With just a few clicks on your computer, you can produce more of your product. Other reasons why it can help you reduce your manufacturing time are as follow:

• Easy modification – A 3D model can show you a 360-degree view of the object which allows you to immediately see any inconsistencies with the design. Unlike something that you designed using pen and paper, the digital file of your product is easier to modify because you don’t have to repeat doing the entire process again.
• Design flexibility – Most CAD modeling software has features that allow you to be more flexible and creative in designing your product ideas.
• Faster replication and production – Once you have the digital file, you can quickly make copies of your design which you can send for production.

Time is an important element when creating 3D product design, most especially if you’re on the technology and fashion industry. Products have a limited lifespan and almost instantly, without you even knowing it, a new product is released in the market. The trend today may be different from tomorrow.

Better marketing presentations

Marketing a concept without any visuals is nearly impossible — unless you’re a master of using highly-descriptive words and the person you’re talking to is very imaginative. Regardless of those skills, pitching product ideas to clients with accompanying images and/or tangible products can bring you closer to success. It also breeds trust because your clients know that you are talking about something real, not just a product of your imagination that can and will only exist inside your brain.

3D product design is also more interactive. It provides better and smarter ways to engage your target market. Combined with the right marketing message, it can capture the curiosity of your audiences and encourage them to more about it and, possibly, buy it.

Good product designs convey quality. But remember, it will always be about how effective this product in solving our problems and not just something that pleases our eyes.

Do you need help with your 3D product design? Contact us now and let’s see how we can help you!