In the product design and development process, one of the most decisive phases for success is the evaluation of its viability. Before investing resources in engineering, prototyping, or industrialization, it is essential to validate that the new product can not only be manufactured technically, but also has a market willing to adopt it.
In this article, we discuss the keys to analyzing the technical and commercial viability of a product from the early stages of development, combining engineering, business, and user experience criteria.
Technical feasibility: is it possible to manufacture it reliably?
The first step in any product design project is to analyze whether the idea can be turned into a functional object. This involves reviewing technical requirements, selecting the right materials, estimating production costs, tolerances, and viable industrial processes (CNC machining, 3D printing, assembly, etc.).
At I-MAS, as a company specializing in product design and development, we evaluate each component from its conception: geometry, functionality, assembly, and manufacturability. This stage is usually supported by industrial prototyping phases that allow us to physically validate the product’s performance before moving on to production.
Furthermore, experience in industrial processes allows for the early detection of potential problems such as deformations, interference, unforeseen costs, or incompatibilities between materials.
Market viability: is there real demand?
It is not enough for the product to be technically viable; it must respond to a specific market need. Product design companies must analyze key aspects from the outset, such as:
- Target market size.
- User segmentation.
- Substitute products.
- Barriers to entry.
- Estimated sales volume.
This analysis allows the value proposition, functionalities, and target price to be adjusted from the early stages of design, reducing risks in the launch of new products.
Tools such as surveys, user interviews, concept testing, and visual prototype testing help to obtain direct feedback on product acceptance before industrialization.
Cost, price, and break-even point
A fundamental part of viability is calculating how much it costs to manufacture the product (unit cost) and whether this is consistent with the estimated selling price. This includes:
- Cost of materials and components.
- Production and assembly costs.
- Development cost (design, prototyping, validation).
- Profit margin required.
At I-MAS, we support our clients in this analysis with our own cost estimation tools from the design stage onwards, enabling them to make informed decisions about materials, processes, and technical configurations that maximize efficiency and economic viability.
Integrate feasibility throughout the entire product development process
Assessing feasibility is not a one-off task, but rather a cross-functional effort that must be present in all phases of product development. From the initial sketches to the manufacturing plans, the design team must work closely with engineering, marketing, and business to ensure that the final result is technically and commercially sustainable.
At I-MAS, we believe in a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach, where design, prototyping, functional testing, and market validation evolve iteratively. This approach reduces timeframes, avoids costly mistakes, and improves the quality of launches.
Discover how we can help you take your project to the next level. Contact us and take the first step towards innovation.
