3 Surprising Things You Will Learn During Product Development

Posted by Penelope Herbert on June 7, 2018 · Leave a Comment 

When your business is going through product development, it’s an exciting time. Your mind is whirring with so many ideas it can feel like you’re struggling to catch up.

You’re at the point of the genesis of something new, and it feels special. In the midst of all the product develoment excitement, you will also find yourself learning a number of lessons.

The first time you develop a product, you’ll probably find some of these lessons rather surprising. If you want to eliminate the element of surprise and give yourself an idea of what to expect from the product development process, then read on…

#1 – Bad feedback is more useful than good feedback

During the product development process, the worst feedback you can hear from employees or focus groups: “it’s great, I love it”.

This kind of feedback is good for the ego, but it’s not good for a thorough and effective design process.

You need to know what’s wrong far more than you need to know what’s right, so you can fix the flaws and allow the positives to stand on their own merits.

Realising that positive feedback isn’t useful is a strange experience, but it’s ultimately a realisation that will help you create the best possible end product.

#2 – You will change your mind far more often than you think

There is no such thing as a seamless, simple product development, so don’t expect it. You’re going to change your mind, and you’re probably going to change your mind again after that instance.

When this happens, it’s important to remember that this is an entirely natural part of the process. No one has ever got a new product right first time.

Every product that is on sale today is the end result of thousands of small changes, switches, adaptations, and developments— it’s just how the process goes.

So while the amount you’re changing your mind may be frustrating, it’s important to remember how very necessary it is.

It shows that you’re thinking, that you’re invested, and that you’re working through the phases as is necessary.

This careful working, reworking, and reworking again is fundamental to good product development, so try not to let it worry you too much.

#3 – You’ve never been more nervous in your life

When you finally have a product ready and raring to go, you’ll likely experience a sudden swoop of nerves.

This is entirely normal. Up until this point, the product has been all yours, the focus of your company and your employees only.

Now, it’s venturing into the wider world; it’s going to be on sale to customers, showcased to the public at a gift fair or exhibition, and potentially even reviewed and discussed by those that buy it.

There’s no doubt this is daunting, but take a few deep breaths and remind yourself that this is what you have been working towards. It’s nerve-wracking, but it’ll be worth it!

In conclusion

Product development is undoubtedly an exciting time. Now you have a better idea of what to expect, you’re more prepared to embrace the entire process. Good luck with your new product!