Theory will only take you so far.
Discommon for Butterfly Network
In a recent post, we explained our four key approaches to design strategy, but we must acknowledge that these are broad strokes. There are nuances that interweave their way through all of our design projects.
For Discommon, a crucial aspect is the focus on design to be executed into a tangible product. If we assume that WE will be manufacturing, then ultimately our output will be better for the client.
The four general design approaches share significant overlap with graphic design, but in industrial design, we aim to see our designs become reality.
On the wandering path through the woods to the final product, we’d ideally not fall off a cliff with our first step:
Design it to be real.
Discommon for Butterfly Network
Discommon rarely has the luxury to hand off the design and walk away. At minimum, we’ll be in a DFM support role.
Manufacturability guides even our roughest concepts. If a seemingly perfect design can’t be made real — what’s the point? The investment of passion, effort, and client resources would be futile. Our mission is to MAKE the client MORE money, not cost them money on a design that can’t be realized.
While rendering your admittedly beautiful cork-wrapped medical products or magically screw and glue-free drill concepts, self-check against this underlying principle:
But can it be made real?
Discommon for Macallan x Urwerk flask
We’re often asked if this focus on reality is detrimental to the overall aesthetic. Occasionally it may restrict us somewhat, but in general, it creates great challenging boundaries that define Discommon — we find the uncommon path.
Real revenue only comes with a real product to sell.
Discommon for Butterfly Network. Real products, actually for sale, generating revenue.