Product design, or industrial design, is a creative and technical process of understanding user needs and creating a product to meet those needs. It involves research, sketching, prototyping, testing and refining a product in order to make it as user-friendly as possible.
The skills required for product design are both creative and technical – from designing the aesthetic aspects of the product to engineering the mechanical components. It’s no surprise that many aspiring designers look into taking product design courses in order to get their foot in the door of this competitive industry.
But what if you can’t afford to take a course or don’t have the time? Is it possible to learn how to become a product designer on your own?
The short answer is yes. With enough dedication and hard work, it is possible to learn how to become a product designer without taking any formal classes. The key is developing your skillset by reading up on relevant topics, practicing through hands-on projects, and networking with experienced professionals in the field.
Research: First and foremost, you need to do your research. Read books on product design theory and practice, watch videos from experts in the field, follow blogs related to industrial design – anything that will help build your knowledge base.
Practice:Once you have an understanding of fundamentals like user experience (UX) design principles and materials science basics, start practicing by working on real-world projects. Reach out to local businesses or start-ups who might be looking for someone with your skillset. Or work on personal projects that push you out of your comfort zone.
Network:Finally, network with professionals in the field who can provide advice or even offer mentorship opportunities. Attend industry events where you can meet potential employers or mentors who could provide valuable insight into what it takes to become a successful designer.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while learning how to become a product designer without taking any formal classes may not be easy, it is definitely possible with enough dedication and hard work. Researching relevant topics, practicing through hands-on projects and networking with experienced professionals will help you develop the necessary skills needed for success as an industrial designer.