The Difference Between Industrial Design and Product Design

Industrial design and product design are two fields that are often confused with one another, even in corporate America. However, while they may have some similarities, they are actually quite different. Industrial design is a field that focuses on the design of physical products, such as furniture, appliances, and vehicles. This field takes into account the function, aesthetics, and ergonomics of a product, and seeks to create designs that are not only attractive but also user-friendly and efficient. On the other hand, product design is a broader field that encompasses the design of any kind of product, whether it is a physical object or a digital product, such as a website or a mobile app. In product design, the focus is on creating a product that is useful, usable, and desirable to the user. This field takes into account the needs and wants of the user, as well as the market trends and the competition. So, while industrial design and product design may have some overlap, they are actually quite different fields. Industrial design focuses on the design of physical products, while product design encompasses a wider range of products, including digital ones. It is important for companies to understand the differences between these two fields, in order to hire the right professionals and get the best results for their products. Industrial designers can help create attractive, functional and user-friendly products, while product designers can help create products that are useful, usable, and desirable to the user yet not thought through function wise. In conclusion, while industrial design and product design may be confused with one another, they are actually two distinct fields with different focuses and objectives. Understanding the differences between these two fields is crucial for companies that want to create successful products.