Before investing time and money in any development it is a really good idea to determine if your idea is do-able. A risk assessment can highlight safety issues you may not have thought of, and allows you to demonstrate that you have fulfilled your obligation to sell a safe product. A feasibility study can help you define your product design specification and identify commercial factors for you to address. For more information, click here.

With over 50 years of combined experience of a huge range of prototyping techniques, we can produce prototypes which range from basic blocks to facsimiles of the real thing. This enables testing of the product design, marketing activities, and consumer feedback before you commit to production. Click here.

Design costs of a project from first sketch to sign off of production samples vary widely as they are dependent on the complexity of the design brief. Design costs are typically one of the smaller costs of bringing a product to market. Tooling costs also vary dependant on the size, number and complexity of components. An effective marketing campaign could be the largest cost in launching a new product. We can help you to understand the cost implications and feasibility of a project. Contact us to find out how.

The design process varies from project to project, as no two products are the same. However, a typical project will start with a review of the idea to make sure it is viable and then once funding and protection is in place the design process can start. This starts with sketching which progresses 3D CAD models and prototypes, followed by producing data files ready for manufacturing.

If you or your team is repeatedly treading the same ground, Hillside Product Design can offer a fresh perspective and inspire new ideas which could turn into great products. We can help to reinvigorate and increase your margin for current products. Find out what we can do for you.

If you have an idea that nobody else has thought of, there are a number of different types of protection for Intellectual Property (IP). We have excellent links with trusted and experienced IP attorneys in several specialisms who can help you gain the right protection. A DIY patent is not the best approach and can do more harm than good. It is important to seek expert legal advice!

Whatever the budget for tooling, required production quantities and preferred country of manufacture we work very closely with our clients and manufacturing partners to determine the optimum manufacturing solution to meet the demands of the project.

Funding and tax relief could be available whether you are an individual with an idea or an established business. The government and its associated bodies are very keen to promote innovation and product development and there are various funding opportunities out there to consider, as well as tax relief schemes for fledgling companies. Read more on possible funding opportunities and how to access them here.

A typical product development process can take anywhere between 3 and 9 months, yet some can be fast tracked in a matter of weeks. This is of course dependant on complexity and breadth of research and development, manufacturers’ lead-times, production of tooling, and certification. To find out more, why not arrange a call-back? Or find out more about a 6 month project case study.

Hillside Product Design's extensive portfolio encompasses products for the home, workplace, retail and distribution environments, roadside, agriculture and even the production lines of major aerospace manufacturers. The chances are that you have used, seen or own one of the products we have designed; whether it is injection moulding 3 million units, or investment casting a 1-off, we can help. Take a look at our portfolio and see for yourself.

You should have a good understanding of your market and your prospective customers. The more information you can provide at the start of the project, the more efficient the project process will be for you. As a full service consultancy we can help you every step of the journey or alternatively at certain stages such as visualising your product or preparing your design ready for manufacturing.

We are happy to answer any question you may have, so please do not hesitate to get in touch.