GRÜNDERGUIDE

Do you have a product idea you want to bring to life? We can help you every step of the way, from idea to store shelf. Here’s a guide to show you how the process might look when working with us.

Pivot indutridesign with Fimbulvetr snowshoes.

1. THE IDEA

Got a great idea? It doesn’t matter if it’s just in your head or a simple hand-drawn sketch. What makes it unique? Who is your target audience, and what competitors are already out there? It’s a good idea to think about this before our first meeting.

2. PROTECT YOUR IDEA

Get a confidentiality agreement in place. Make sure everyone you share your idea with has signed it - this reduces the risk of someone copying it. We can help set up such agreements before our first meeting if needed. We can also refer you to skilled lawyers who can assist with intellectual property rights (IPR).

3. FUNDING

How will you fund your project? Can you apply for public grants? Do you have an investor, or will you finance it yourself? The most important thing is to have some initial capital - that's what gets the ball rolling. If you need help writing applications for public grants, we can assist you!

4. MEET US!

Come by for a coffee and a non-commitment chat at our office in Maridalsveien 3N. Once we’ve signed a confidentiality agreement, you can tell us about your idea. To better understand your idea and its potential, here are some useful questions to think about beforehand:

1. What makes your idea innovative?
2. Are there similar products or competitors?
3. Who is your target audience?
4. Do you have any preferences for materials or aesthetics?
5. What is your budget?
6. Do you have a user group that can test your prototypes?
7. Is your product environmentally friendly?
8. Do you have any deadlines we should consider? (e.g., trade shows, events, or launch dates)
9. What type of delivery are you looking for?

Here are three different levels of project deliverables we can provide:

1. Concept sketches and photorealistic renderings to help you communicate your idea more effectively.
2. A functional prototype for testing the product’s features and/or an aesthetic prototype that looks like the final product, ideal for exhibitions and trade shows.  
3. Technical drawings for production.

5. PRODUCT SPECIFICATION

After our meeting, we’ll send you a document to fill out. Here, we ask you to prioritize your product’s specifications into three categories:

1. Must-have features – What absolutely needs to be part of the product?
2. Nice-to-have features – What would be great to include but isn’t essential?
3. Optional features – What could be added if possible?

This document serves as a shared guideline and can be adjusted as we move through the process.

6. PRICE AND TIMELINE

Based on the product specification, we’ll send you a price estimate along with a project timeline. This will outline the different phases of the project, key tasks, estimated timeframes, and proposed meetings. The offer is built around the necessary steps to achieve the optimal result. However, we’re flexible - you don’t have to commit to the entire project from start to end. We can also take one phase at a time.

7. GETTING STARTED!

Once all formalities are in place, the fun begins! Wondering what a product journey might look like from idea to store shelf? Here’s an example:

1. Concept development: We start by mapping the user journey, identifying target needs, and conducting market analysis. This gives us a strong foundation to develop concept directions, starting with hand sketches before moving into digital 3D modeling. Together, we refine one or two concepts for further development, concluding with a concept presentation.

2. Detailed design: The concept is finalized with defined materials and production techniques. All functions are fully modeled in 3D, and the aesthetic expression is established. At this stage, we have a complete design with photorealistic renderings and 3D files ready for prototyping.

3. Prototyping: by using 3D printing, CNC milling, or laser cutting etc. we bring products out to the real world. Does the product work as intended? How is the ergonomics? Are the size proportions correct? This phase provides answers - along with some surprises. It’s often crucial to engage the target audience for testing. If needed, we can facilitate prototype testing and workshops with relevant users. Iteration cycles is key in this phase. Each cycle includes: prototype production, testing, and design adjustments based on feedback. The more iterations, the better the final result becomes. We recommend at least three iterations to maximize success.

4. Manufacturing: With a solid prototype foundation in place, we can now prepare for scale up production. Whether it’s injection molding, vacuum forming, extrusion, or machining, we have the expertise to adapt geometry, materials, and techniques for efficient manufacturing. In this phase we ensure that the core idea, concept, and final design remain intact while being optimized for production. We collaborate with various manufacturing facilities within metal, wood, fabrics, polymer production. When production documentation is finalized, we can obtain cost estimates for manufacturing and unit pricing. At this point it’s also smart to team up with a production partner. We’ll help you find someone suitable for your needs.

5. Graphic profile and packaging: We deliver name, logo, CSR (Color, Material, Finish), typography, and packaging design. If needed, we collaborate with skilled partners for branding and text to ensure a strong and cohesive brand identity.

6. Production follow-up: When you're satisfied with the design, production partner and pricing, you might be ready to hit the production button. We stand by your side throughout this process in case any unexpected challenges arise. You may be asked to adjust the design to optimize production efficiency. We ensure that design modifications are handled by someone who truly understand your product. Our delivery in this phase is updated production documentation that aligns with the product's original specifications.

7. Marketing: To get your product to store shelves, a solid sales and marketing strategy is essential. We have skilled partners who make strategic and creative decisions to help you reach your target audience - whether through e-commerce setup, social media campaigns, product launches, or events that generate buzz.

And just like that – your product is launched!
We look forward to meeting you!