Since 1970, Steely Products has been designing and making quality material handling and storage equipment. During that time, we’ve never been complacent about our designs, and we’re constantly refining and improving our products for our customers.
There are several key elements of great design processes. While the exact process for designing new equipment or a bespoke solution can vary depending on the manufacturer, type of equipment and the customer, here’s a six-step example of the design process.
1. Feasibility study
A feasibility study is an assessment of whether a bespoke or new design is the best solution. For example, a study of this type may conclude that an existing product from Steely Products, perhaps with minor modifications, is more practical.
2. Concept design
After it’s agreed that a new design is feasible, a concept design is created, which is a summary of the design elements. This could be simply in the form of a rough sketch of the new design, or a written summary of the design features required.
3. Preliminary design
A preliminary design is a more detailed drawing and description of the item. Customers can be consulted to see if they agree in principle that the design is a good and practical one.
4. Detailed design
The detailed design is a technical drawing on paper or on design software that includes the exact specifications of the new design. It will specify the materials used and the method of construction.
5. Prototype
The next stage is to make a prototype of the design. This is delivered to the end users for testing. There may be modifications required at this stage until both the end user and manufacturer are happy with how the prototype performs.
6. Finalisation
This stage is the production of the finished new design. The required number of items are produced and delivered to end users.
Innovation
Once a product has been created, small incremental improvements can add value to the design, as there is often room for minor modifications that add more functionality or ease of use.
Cost improvements
It’s no use having innovative equipment designs if they cost too much, but every business has to make a profit. At Steely Products, we’re constantly looking at keeping manufacturing costs low so that competitive prices can be charged. We identify and procure quality materials and negotiate great prices. If manufacturing processes can be made more efficient, this also reduces costs.
Another way that we keep costs down is by supplying direct to end users without using wholesalers or distributors, who add a profit margin to the prices they charge their customers.
At Steely Products, we manufacture premium-quality equipment that is well-designed and built to last. We’re happy for potential new customers to try out our equipment to judge for themselves.
If you’re looking to invest in an innovative, well-designed range of material handling and storage equipment, talk to us at Steely Products. Call our team or use the contact form below.
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