Our S.M.A.R.T. Product Development Process

Mechanical watch

We believe in a structured yet flexible approach to product development. Our process ensures that each stage is meticulously planned and executed, paving the way for your product’s success. We call this the S.M.A.R.T. Product Development Model: Skillful, Marketable, Accelerated, Responsive, and Targeted.

Awards and Recognition

More awards than any other design firm in our niche

Muse design awards
The Startup Weekly
Paris Design Awards
Ad World Masters Award
Indigo Design Award

Why Our S.M.A.R.T. Model Works

Our S.M.A.R.T. Product Development Model stands out as a comprehensive approach tailored to meet the unique challenges of small businesses and startups. By focusing on key principles, we ensure that each product we develop is not only functional and innovative but also strategically positioned for market success. Here's why our model is effective and trusted by many:

Skillful

Leveraging decades of experience and expertise, we ensure that every product is designed to the highest standards.

Marketable

Our strategic approach ensures that your product is not only functional but also has a strong market appeal.

Accelerated

We streamline the development process to bring your product to market in record time.

Responsive

Our team is always available to address your concerns and make necessary adjustments to keep your project on track.

Targeted

We focus on your specific needs, goals, and budget, ensuring that every aspect of the product development process is aligned with your vision.

What to find out more?

Our client-centric process ensures that your vision guides every phase, from initial sketches to rigorous simulations and prototyping, ultimately refining your product for successful market entry.

Developing Products for 20+ Years

MAKO Design has spent over 20 years creating, testing, refining, and perfecting the industrial design process required to create global caliber products, specifically for startups, small manufacturers, home inventors, and eCommerce brands.

Through our intense focus on product design services for small businesses, we ensure perfect alignment with your product vision and help you succeed in every way. Our industrial design services are tailored to designing your product to a modern and top-tier caliber while also being able to execute quickly and efficiently, all at small business budgets. We created this product development niche back in 1999, and we’re still leading it today focusing on that same business model over 20 years later.

For Startups

Whether you’re an early-stage startup or getting ready to scale, we’re here to transform your idea into a product design to help you disrupt the existing market, along with the many product market connections you’ll need along the way.

MAKO is your one-stop-shop for it all, in addition to connecting our clients with some of the industry’s leading players in the hardware startup space.

Our expertise in product design ensures that your product is innovative, functional, and market-ready.

For Small Manufacturers

We are the original product design services firm tailored to small product businesses, so why not work with the best for your next big product? Whether designing something completely new, revitalizing your existing products, or improving something that already exists, MAKO provides world-class design at small business pricing and timelines.

Our experience with small manufacturers allows us to create designs that are both high-quality and cost-effective. We understand the unique challenges faced by small manufacturers and offer solutions that are both innovative and practical.

For All Home Inventors

No petition is too big, no detail is too small. We’re here to collaboratively design your product for success. As a new inventor, MAKO has the most comprehensive set of support services, industry connections, and guidance to help your product be a huge success.

We guide you through the entire process, then set you up with direct connections to some of the best product sales brands on earth. Our support for home inventors ensures that your ideas are transformed into successful products. We provide the tools and resources needed to navigate the complex process of bringing a new product to market.

eCommerce Brands

In the competitive eCommerce space, a standout product is crucial. Mako Design excels in industrial design, creating innovative, market-ready products that give your store a competitive edge.

Our end-to-end services ensure your product meets market demands and aligns perfectly with your brand.

Our Product Development Work

Innovative solutions, successful launches.

Bob Ginther with the Tri-Plunger

Tri-Plunger

With help from TriMech (formerly MAKO), Bob Ginther, a Household Product Inventor, walked into a big box retailer and sold his first batch of Tri-Plunger

Learn More
Performa-Gym-Lock-Scene-Idustrial-Design

Performa Gym Lock

TriMech (formerly MAKO) assisted with a new Gym Lock Design for Product Distribution Company Performa

Learn More
Petbot

PetBot

TriMech (formerly MAKO) provided Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, and Prototyping of the PetBot consumer electronic product.

Learn More

Gain all of the Knowledge You Need to Succeed

Our product design startup platform is a hub for education and success in product development, launch, and scale. Access podcasts, articles, eBooks, mentorship, and essential tools for your success.

Podcast

The Product Startup Podcast

Listen Now »

Knowledge Base

Resources for Product Startups

Explore »

How To Guide

Product Development Guide

Download »

Mentorship

1-on-1 Strategy and Mentorship

Get Started »

How does it work

A Step-by-Step Guide to the Process

At MAKO, we pride ourselves on a meticulous and transparent process that ensures quality and efficiency. Here’s an inside look at how we bring your projects to life, from concept to completion.

Product & Business Strategy
01

Initial Consultation and Planning

Our journey begins with an initial consultation where we discuss your vision, goals, and requirements. This step is crucial as it helps us understand your needs and tailor our approach accordingly. We believe in open communication and ensure that all stakeholders are on the same page before we move forward.

Once we have a clear understanding, we move into the planning phase. Here, we outline the project scope, timelines, and resources needed. Detailed planning ensures that we stay on track and deliver on our promises without any surprises.

Product Development Services
02

Design and Development

With a solid plan in place, our design team gets to work. Using the latest tools and technologies, we create detailed designs and prototypes. This phase is highly collaborative, with regular feedback sessions to ensure the designs align with your vision.

Next, our development team takes over. They transform the designs into functional products, whether it's a website, application, or physical product. Our developers follow best practices and industry standards to ensure high-quality results.

Smart MVP
03

Testing and Quality Assurance

Testing is a critical part of our process. We conduct thorough testing to identify and fix any issues. This includes functionality tests, performance checks, and user experience evaluations. Our goal is to ensure that the final product is not only functional but also delightful to use.

Startup marketing
04

Launch and Deployment

After rigorous testing, we move to the launch phase. We deploy the product in a live environment and monitor it closely to ensure everything runs smoothly. Our team is on standby to address any issues that might arise during the initial launch period.

Product launch support
05

Post-Launch Support and Maintenance

Our commitment to you doesn’t end at launch. We offer ongoing support and maintenance to ensure your product continues to perform well. Whether it's regular updates, troubleshooting, or adding new features, we are here to help you succeed in the long term.

Continuous improvement
06

Continuous Improvement

We believe in continuous improvement. We regularly gather feedback and analyze performance to find areas for enhancement. This iterative process helps us keep your product up-to-date and relevant in a constantly evolving market.

Our process is designed to be transparent, efficient, and client-focused. We strive to deliver exceptional results by combining thorough planning, innovative design, meticulous development, and comprehensive support.

Testimonials

Want to get started?

Whether you're a small business, eCommerce, or a startup, our tailored approach ensures that your product is not only functional and market-ready but also strategically positioned for success. We are committed to being your trusted partner, providing ongoing support and continually improving to meet your evolving needs.

Let's bring your vision to life together.