Five technologies shaping product design

Technology has always played an important role in product design. Yet as new innovations continue to emerge, so do new opportunities to streamline the process of bringing beneficial products to market.

So, what are some examples that are influencing the space right now?

In this article, we’ll share five technologies shaping future of product design.

1) Design software

Since the late 1960’s, there have been computer programmes specifically made for product design. Nowadays, there are high-tech modern 3D design softwares that allow designers to create renders and mock-ups of their products.

There are many benefits to using these programs. In the first place, they allow designers to better visualise their schemes during the design process. They save money by allowing the designs to be made digitally and save time by providing intuitive and easy-to-use interfaces.

2) 3D printing

In recent years, 3D printing has revolutionised the product design space, helping designers bring their ideas into the real world quicker than ever. Using 3D printers, designers can print different iterations of a product quickly and at a lower cost than before. Thanks to recent improvements in 3D printing, it’s now even possible to manufacture parts of end products using this technology.

3) Virtual reality

Traditionally, the only ways to interact with products during the design phase has been on a computer screen or by creating physical prototypes. Virtual reality offers a way to interact somewhere in between these two methods.

Using virtual reality, designers can view and interact with a product in 3D before creating it physically. This is especially useful during the testing process, allowing testers to interact with the product and provide feedback. This can then inform improvements needed to get the product ready for market.

4) Cloud computing

More and more design firms are turning to cloud-based platforms, recognising how this technology can help enhance collaboration during the design process. With designs and mock-ups saved onto a shared network, it’s easy for different designers to access and contribute to the same project. It also has the potential to reduce the costs associated with localised computing.

5) Motion sensing

Recent developments in motion sensing technology have opened the door for new ways to interact with digital content in 3D – namely using the body directly as a user interface for digital experiences.

An example of this type of technology is the Leap Motion Controller uses motion tracking a camera to allow the use of hand and finger motions as input. New devices like this have the potential to make working on designs more intuitive than ever before.

Which of these technologies do you think will most shape the future of product design?