Protolabs: Three key elements for success in product development by 2025

In the latest edition of Protolabs’ “Real Talk” podcast, industry experts discuss how manufacturers need to adapt their product development to be successful in 2025. The focus is on three key points: accelerating development processes, collaborating with customers and partners on innovation and planning early for scalability.

According to a recent study by Protolabs, 53% of companies are developing their products faster than ever before, and 82% are aiming to accelerate further. However, speed alone is not enough. Dean Baker, Sales Director at Protolabs EMEA, emphasizes that a fast market entry is crucial to generate attention. At the same time, however, the product must meet a real customer need.

The importance of co-innovation, i.e. the joint development of products with customers and partners, is also emphasized. Namrata Sarmah, CEO of Women in Product UK, explains that many companies still make too many assumptions instead of testing their ideas at an early stage. Innovation should not take place behind closed doors, but must be continuously adapted to the needs of users, adds Rubende De Francisco, CEO of medtech company Overa Health.

Another key to success is to consider scalability at an early stage. Baker warns that without the involvement of production experts as early as the design phase, there is a risk of developing products that cannot be manufactured cost-effectively.

Technologies such as artificial intelligence, digital twins and rapid prototyping can help to optimize the development process. Baker emphasizes that companies should either introduce these technologies internally or involve external partners. Because once the production lines are up and running, it is too late to make fundamental changes. The podcast’s findings show that success in product development requires close collaboration between all parties involved and the integration of modern technologies.