Employing in-house industrial designers can be expensive, as it requires you to seek and train new staff members. Alternatively, the top industrial design companies specialize in on-demand outsourced services of excellent quality. To help you find your ideal business partner, DesignRush has assessed service providers from around the world based on customer feedback, offerings, work samples, rates, and market reputation.

Industrial Design × Manufacturing ×
  • End-to-end digital product design and engineering.

    End-to-end digital product design and engineering for enterprises and premium brands...

    Top Services:

    • Branding
    • Mobile App Development
    • Software Development
    • AI Development
    • Design Services
    • Show more
    Location
    New York City, New York
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    $25,000 - $50,000
    Portfolios Count
    4 Projects Listed
  • A Leading Product Design & Development Company

    GID is a custom product development company in California. We provide complete product development services including product design and product prototype development. Contact us and we can help you launch a brand new product...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Design Services
    Location
    Yorba Linda, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $25/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    3 Projects Listed
  • Driving Product Marketing Innovation for Over 80 Years

    For over 80 years, Stephen Gould has been a leader in the packaging industry. As a top product marketing agency, we provide turnkey solutions, from design and prototyping to production and supply chain management. With a people-first approach and a legacy of innovation, we bring quality products to market...

    Top Services:

    • Package Design
    • Product Design
    • Branding
    • Design Services
    • Show more
    Location
    Kinnelon, New Jersey
    Number of Employees
    500 - 999
    Average Hourly Rate
    $50/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    5 Projects Listed
  • We Design WorldChanging Physical Products

    Premier product design & engineering, rendering, and prototyping house located in downtown Los Angeles...

    Top Services:

    • Package Design
    • Product Design
    Location
    Los Angeles, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
  • Human-centric x AI-native Design Engineering

    Human-centered design and development studio bridging the gap between design, development and AI. Supports ambitious startups, product teams and founders in creating meaningful and engaging user experiences at a fast pace by combining Computer Science (technical), Human Computer Interaction (usability) and...

    Top Services:

    • UI/UX Design
    • Product Design
    • Web Development
    Location
    Cham, Switzerland
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Redefining Manufacturing Limits

    Your Trusted Partner in Product Design, Rapid Prototyping, and Low-Volume Manufacturing. Based in Sheffield and ISO 9001:2015 certified, we specialise in bringing innovative ideas to life...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Design Services
    Location
    Sheffield, United Kingdom
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    5 Projects Listed
  • Engineering your future: Dream. Build. Scale.

    EasyIOT is a company that provides contract product design and manufacturing services, with expertise in electronics and the Internet of Things. Our headquarters is in Sydney, Australia, and we have a satellite office in Chengdu, China. Our product design service comes with unlimited revisions and a 100%...

    Top Services:

    • IoT
    • Product Design
    • Wearables
    • AI Development
    • VR/AR
    • Show more
    Location
    Sydney, Australia
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Portfolios Count
    3 Projects Listed
  • 3D, Motion, Creative Web

    Anubi stands as a premier creative studio situated in Italy, distinguished for its tailored design solutions that push the boundaries of creativity. Our specialization extends to the dynamic realms of Motion Graphics and the creation of immersive 3D Websites. With a commitment to excellence, we bring a unique...

    Top Services:

    • Digital Services
    • Video Production
    • Creative Services
    • Graphic Design
    • Branding
    • Show more
    Location
    Badia Polesine, Italy
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $60/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • A different creative agency.

    Outlier Creative specializes in 3D product visualization. Our hyper-realistic images, animations, and videos help you grab attention and stand out...

    Top Services:

    • Package Design
    • Product Design
    • Graphic Design
    Location
    Barcelona, Spain
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Converting Your Ideas Into Reality

    IdeasAssistant is offering professional Design & Development, Marketing and Automation Services since the year 2012. Until now, we have served hundreds of clients worldwide. We owned an experienced team of engineers, designers and marketing professionals. Hire us and we will take care of all your needs from...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • AI Development
    • Mobile App Development
    • Branding
    • Show more
    Location
    Mississauga, Canada
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $25/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    3 Projects Listed
  • With Smart Owl Info Systems, you get every online marketing solution you need, all in one nest.

    We're the wise owls of the web design world. Our team of savvy web designers and developers is passionate about crafting beautiful, functional websites that drive business success. We don't just think outside the box; we live there, ready to tackle any challenge that comes our way...

    Top Services:

    • Web Design
    • Web Development
    • eCommerce Development
    • SEO
    • Digital Strategy
    • Show more
    Location
    Delhi, India
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $15/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    6 Projects Listed
  • Developing products through every stage of the design process, and creating immersive visualization

    I create high-quality product images and animations for use as marketing materials/product launches...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Video Production
    • Creative Services
    • Design Services
    • Show more
    Location
    Salt Lake City, Utah
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Elevating Brands with Precision Design.

    Hey there! My name is Emmanuelle Kronenberg, I'm a passionate about industrial design...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Package Design
    Location
    Cincinnati, Ohio
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Let’s leverage our experience to transform your ideas into successful products

    Product design expertise in electrical & mechanical engineering, industrial & human-centered design, and firmware & mobile application product development. From start-ups to enterprises; from concepts to production...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    Location
    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $75/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • Innovate. Integrate. Inspire: Your Tech Partners.

    At the forefront of innovation, we are a pioneering technology firm weaving together software, hardware, and cutting-edge deep tech solutions. We aspire to inspire change and elevate possibilities through our innovative tech solutions...

    Top Services:

    • IoT
    • Software Development
    • AI Development
    • Mobile App Development
    • Web Development
    • Show more
    Location
    Krakow, Poland
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $40/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
    Portfolios Count
    4 Projects Listed
  • Where Dreams Are Made

    Innovative product development, design strategy, Intellectual Property IP, business design, industrial design, product design, product / technology development, automotive design, aerospace design...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • UI/UX Design
    • Branding
    Location
    Beaconsfield, Canada
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $150/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Think Global Think USS

    Universal Stream Solution (USS) is an Atlanta, Georgia-based IT solutions company established in 2013, with an office in Ahmedabad, India. We serve businesses across healthcare, oil & gas, real estate, banking & fintech, manufacturing, education and retail. Our current focus is healthcare technology...

    Top Services:

    • Web Development
    • Mobile App Development
    • Web Design
    • Software Development
    • Product Design
    • Show more
    Location
    Atlanta, Georgia
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $20/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Your Premier Las Vegas Partner

    Circle Exhibit is a Las Vegas-based trade show booth design and build partner supporting exhibitors with booth planning, custom exhibit design, fabrication, graphics, logistics, booth rental planning, installation, and dismantle support...

    Top Services:

    • Design Services
    • Graphic Design
    • Advertising
    Location
    Las Vegas, Nevada
    Number of Employees
    100 - 249
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $25,000 - $50,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Engineering-led Product Development

    Atlantic Manufacturing Solutions (AMS) is an engineering-led product development consultancy specializing in transforming ideas into manufacturable, real-world products. From concept design and prototyping to manufacturing strategy and production support, AMS helps startups, founders, and established...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Engineering
    • Wearables
    • Design Services
    • Creative Services
    • Show more
    Location
    Miami, Florida
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $115/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • We transform Ideas Into Remarkable Digital Products.

    We’ve been creating top notch UI and Branding designs for famous products. Now we are ready to help your product stand out...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Software Development
    • UI/UX Design
    Location
    San Francisco, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $99/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • Tradie Web Solutions.

    Elevate your construction and trade business with Virtual Staff Hire your go-to destination for custom web design. We specialize in creating dynamic, user-friendly websites tailored for the construction and trade sector, blending impactful design with practical functionality...

    Top Services:

    • Graphic Design
    • Design Services
    • Digital Strategy
    • Digital Services
    • Web Design
    • Show more
    Location
    North Strathfield, Australia
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $799/hr
  • Together For A Vision

    NSF Crystal Arcade has been the trusted destination in Dubai for unique, custom-made trophies and corporate gifts. Specializing in exquisite crystal and glass products, their expert craftsmen offer a wide range of personalized services, including glass etching, engraving, and laser cutting...

    Top Services:

    • Public Relations
    • Creative Services
    • Event Marketing
    • Affiliate Marketing
    • Print Design
    • Show more
    Location
    Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $21/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • Helping Hardware Founders Build Market-ready Products

    Analogy is an award-winning industrial design and product development studio helping hardware founders bring products from idea to market. Through Product Path, our proven end-to-end process, we guide founders through concept development, industrial design, engineering, prototyping, design for manufacturing...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Design Services
    Location
    Bengaluru, India
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $30/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
    Portfolios Count
    4 Projects Listed
  • Injecting Sense in Every Design

    BSense, a product prototype firm founded by a French expert and based in China, offers a comprehensive journey from design to manufacturing. With a blend of strategic adaptation and unique design ideologies, we promise competent solutions for every project...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    Location
    Dongguan, China
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    3 Projects Listed
  • We Are a Full-Spectrum Design Studio.

    Propulsion is a leading product design studio based in Austin, TX. We help companies, from start-ups to Fortune 500s, bring their ideas to market...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Package Design
    • Design Services
    Location
    Austin, Texas
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $150/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
  • NOCTAVIS - one-stop electronics design house

    NOCTAVIS - is an innovative corporation with extensive experience in the design and implementation of embedded electronic systems. NOCTAVIS is an expert in embedded electronics, electronic devices and software, IoT solutions, artificial intelligence and digital optics...

    Top Services:

    • IoT
    • Software Development
    • Wearables
    • Product Design
    • Show more
    Location
    Vilnius, Lithuania
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $75/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $50,000 & Up
  • We create digital brands, products and experiences that actually work.

    Ember Design is a Hamburg-based UX/UI design agency specializing in digital branding, product management, and technology solutions. We excel at creating immersive and effective user experiences, offering services ranging from brand development to web development. Our commitment to innovation and creativity...

    Top Services:

    • UI/UX Design
    • Design Services
    • Web Design
    • Branding
    • Product Design
    • Show more
    Location
    Hamburg, Germany
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $140/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $25,000 - $50,000
  • Innovative Design, Impactful Results.

    Discover the power of exceptional design with Will Brett Design, a leading UK-based design studio dedicated to transforming your product vision into reality. Specializing in crafting bespoke solutions that elevate your business, from striking web design to impactful graphic design and branding. Blending...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • UI/UX Design
    • Web Design
    • Web Development
    • WordPress Website Design
    • Show more
    Location
    Portsmouth, United Kingdom
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $50/hr
  • Your Partner in Visual Communication Strategy

    SBN Media, also known as Sixteen By Nine Media, is a Mumbai-based video production house established in 2010. Founded by Gourav Ghosh, an alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), the company specializes in crafting high-impact visual stories for brands, corporations, and mission-driven...

    Top Services:

    • Video Production
    • Creative Services
    • Video Marketing
    • AI Development
    • Show more
    Location
    Mumbai, India
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $102/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    12 Projects Listed
  • Most affordable website.

    Welcome to EasyQuickWeb, your trusted website designers in Hyderabad! Our team of expert web designers is here to provide tailored solutions for your online needs...

    Top Services:

    • Design Services
    • Digital Marketing
    • Logo Design
    • Creative Services
    • Branding
    • Show more
    Location
    Hyderabad, India
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $10/hr
  • One-Stop Hardware Design & Software Development

    TronixV has remained committed to delivering comprehensive one-stop solutions that cover the entire product lifecycle of hardware for diverse enterprises, universities, and research institutes...

    Top Services:

    • IoT
    • Software Development
    • Product Design
    Location
    Beijing, China
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • Creating top-notch marketing content to boost your sales

    Asteron provides creative high-conversion marketing assets such as videos, 3D renders and exhibition booths...

    Top Services:

    • Video Production
    • Design Services
    • Event Marketing
    Location
    Auderghem, Belgium
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
  • Creativity Unleashed

    AARK Marketing Services - UAEs Most Trusted Digital Marketing & PR Agency with 100% Client Satisfaction. Ignite your brands growth with data-driven marketing, powerful PR, and high-performance digital strategies tailored for the UAE and GCC markets. We help you attract qualified traffic, capture valuable...

    Top Services:

    • Social Media Marketing
    • Public Relations
    • eCommerce Development
    • Web Design
    • Mobile App Development
    • Show more
    Location
    Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • Promising reasonable 3D modelling and design services

    Tesla Mechanical Designs was founded with a clear objective: to deliver top-tier 3D modelling and drafting services globally. Our vision is to establish ourselves as a premier provider of Mechanical Design services worldwide...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Design Services
    Location
    Edison, New Jersey
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $150/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Consulting experts in advanced machine design and robotic automation

    Consulting experts in automation, robotics, machine design. Established as trusted product development innovators in the Southeast since 2008. Holding several patents of our own, we know what it takes to bring new product vision from the drawing board to production floor...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    Location
    Raleigh , North Carolina
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
  • End-to-End Retail Transformation From Strategy to Execution

    DArt Design - Strategic Retail Branding & Marketing Agency...

    Top Services:

    • Advertising
    • Market Research
    • Branding
    • Creative Services
    • Design Services
    • Show more
    Location
    Noida, India
    Number of Employees
    250 - 499
    Portfolios Count
    8 Projects Listed
  • Design and Engineering Services.

    WMDE is a group of design & engineering creative professionals, with the collective skillset to transform idea-to-product...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Design Services
    Location
    London, United Kingdom
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $80/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Engineering & IT Solutions

    Alignex provides engineering solutions, services and consulting for manufacturers, product development and design, as well as engineering firms...

    Top Services:

    • Software Development
    • Product Design
    • IT Services
    Location
    Edina, Minnesota
    Number of Employees
    100 - 249
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
  • We Engineer Great Experiences.

    Alloy crafts exceptionally engineered products that inspire delight and brand loyalty in the people who use them. We partner with our clients to bring their visions to life by applying creativity, experience and proven engineering principles to solve difficult problems. Product engineering is what we love to...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Design Services
    Location
    San Francisco, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
  • Transforming Ideas Into Reality

    Jaycon's core expertise is transforming hardware product ideas into reality. With a comprehensive service line, we guide our clients from concept development to mass production...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Design Services
    Location
    Palm Bay, Florida
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
  • Unlocking The Full Potential Of Amazon.

    Cogent Solutions specializes in strategic Amazon solutions designed to drive growth and deliver lasting value to businesses. With a focus on leveraging the power of the Amazon platform, we offer tailored strategies and expert guidance to optimize performance and maximize success in the competitive e-commerce...

    Top Services:

    • Package Design
    • Digital Strategy
    • Product Design
    • Digital Services
    • Design Services
    • Show more
    Location
    Chicago, Illinois
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $10/hr
  • We Are Brand Rich a Dallas Based Creative Agency.

    Brand Rich is a creative studio that brings a refined blend of aesthetics and functionality to digital branding. We specialize in crafting visually compelling solutions that tell a story and engage the senses, helping our clients stand out in a crowded digital marketplace. With a team that merges corporate...

    Top Services:

    • Branding
    • Social Media Marketing
    • Graphic Design
    • Digital Strategy
    • Creative Services
    • Show more
    Location
    Dallas, Texas
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
  • Transforming ideas into reality

    Product Innov is a one-stop shop for transforming ideas into market-ready products, offering services from concept design and 3D visualization to prototyping, manufacturing, marketing and sales support...

    Top Services:

    • Product Design
    • Design Services
    Location
    Miami, Florida
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Premium Branding For High-Growth Professional Services

    Dallas Design Co. is a boutique branding and design studio that helps ambitious professional service firms build brands that command trust, justify premium pricing, and accelerate growth. We combine strategic positioning, visual identity design, high-conversion websites, and premium marketing collateral to...

    Top Services:

    • Graphic Design
    • Logo Design
    • Branding
    • Design Services
    • Digital Strategy
    • Show more
    Location
    Dallas, Texas
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Idol for all your IT needs

    IT IDOL Technologies is a custom software development company specializing in custom software development services, custom AI solutions development, and product engineering. Hire dedicated software developers to build scalable, high-performance solutions that drive innovation and business growth...

    Top Services:

    • AI Development
    • Software Development
    • Mobile App Development
    • Web Design
    • eCommerce Development
    • Show more
    Location
    Valsad, India
    Number of Employees
    100 - 249
    Average Hourly Rate
    $15/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    5 Projects Listed
  • We turn numbers into captivating narratives and strategies into unique experiences.

    At Futuro Comunicación we turn monotony into digital magic, personalizing each service with unique creativity. Our customer service is more than a help line; it is a virtual hug. We offer you a tailored digital experience to make your brand shine...

    Top Services:

    • Web Development
    • Graphic Design
    • Video Production
    • Branding
    • Logo Design
    • Show more
    Location
    Quito, Ecuador
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • We grow strong brands that sell.

    iZ Agency is more than just a marketing agency; it's a strategic partner committed to fostering long-term, mutually beneficial relationships built on trust, professionalism, transparency, and effective communication. We prioritize understanding your unique needs and goals, collaborating closely with you to...

    Top Services:

    • Video Production
    • Branding
    • Creative Services
    • Web Development
    • eCommerce Development
    • Show more
    Location
    Cornești, Romania
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $30/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Trusted By Companies Of All Sizes

    Wellstronics3D is a professional product development company who provides product development services such as 3D Scanning, Reverse Engineering, 3D Printing, CAD, Design for Manufacturing, Product Cost Estimates, 3D Modeling, Low Volume Production, Patent Drawings and Technical Writing...

    Top Services:

    • Design Services
    • Product Design
    • Creative Services
    • Digital Services
    • Show more
    Location
    Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $90/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Crafting your Ideas

    Workeely is your comprehensive solution hub. We provide a range of services including Website Design, Graphics, CV and Resume Writing, Virtual Assistance, Copywriting, and more. Our proficient team ensures top-quality solutions that foster your business's success in the digital era. We stand by our commitment...

    Top Services:

    • Graphic Design
    • Design Services
    • Web Design
    • Web Development
    • WordPress Website Design
    • Show more
    Location
    Twin Falls, Canada
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $10/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • Boxes Built Around Your Product & Not Templates. Benefit from low minimum orders.

    Custom Designs Boxes build brands and an 20+ Year experienced workforce to design Custom Boxes, Custom packaging, creative die-cut designer boxes that satisfy the needs of heavy or light, big or small, casual or luxurious products/businesses...

    Top Services:

    • Package Design
    • Digital Services
    • Branding
    • Creative Services
    • Logo Design
    • Show more
    Location
    Manassas Park, Virginia
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $45/hr

Industrial Design Company Hiring Guide

What is an industrial design company?

An industrial design company is a company that specializes in creating and developing concepts and specifications to improve the functionality, value, and appearance of products and systems, benefiting both users and manufacturers. These companies focus on a product's aesthetics, usability, ergonomics, and overall user experience (UX); all of which often combine art, business, and engineering to create innovative and practical designs.

Explicitly addressing the physical form, usability, and manufacturability of tangible products, industrial design companies typically serve clients in manufacturing sectors. These sectors typically include consumer electronics, automotive, medical devices, home appliances, and industrial equipment. Their clients often have specific requirements that go beyond basic product functionality, including:

  • Cost efficiency: Designing products that are reasonably priced to manufacture
  • Sustainability: Creating eco-friendly designs that minimize environmental impact
  • Compliance: Ensuring designs meet industry regulations and standards
  • User experience: Balancing aesthetic appeal with usability and ergonomics

Let’s look at how Whipsaw, an industrial design agency, met these criteria in its work for Aescape, a NY-based advanced massage company.

The client sought Whipsaw's industrial design expertise to create a fully automated, on-demand massage system. It envisioned an AI-powered product that would maintain the sensitivity and control required for a precise, quiet massage.

Whipsaw was tasked with refining the design details using advanced technologies to ensure that Aescape kept its brand while offering valuable and compelling product innovations. Its design included four cameras that scanned the customer's body and created a 3D map of their contact points. The solution also involved digital control interfaces, which provided a real-time view of the device.

Combining technology and design user-centricity, the collaboration resulted in an entirely automated machine for a personalized massage experience.

The need for industrial design companies will continue to increase as the global market of their industry is projected to expand to approximately $73 billion by 2031, demonstrating a strong compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% throughout a decade.

What do industrial design companies do?

Industrial design companies develop concepts and specifications that optimize the function, value, and appearance of products and systems for the benefit of both users and manufacturers.

Here are the critical services provided by industrial design agencies:

  • Conceptualization: Brainstorming and creating initial design ideas based on client requirements, market research, and user needs
  • User research: Conducting studies to understand the needs, behaviors, and preferences of the target audience
  • 3D modeling and prototyping: Building digital models and physical prototypes to visualize and test the design
  • Detailing and refinement: Fine-tuning the design details to ensure functionality, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness
  • Materials selection: Choosing appropriate materials that align with the brand's identity, design, function, and cost requirements
  • Mechanical design: Ensuring the product can be realistically manufactured and efficiently assembled
  • Compliance and standards: Adhering to industry standards and regulations
  • Production coordination: Finding, communicating, and working closely with manufacturers
  • Quality control: Ensuring that the end product meets the design specifications and quality standards
  • Usability testing: Evaluating the product with real users to identify and fix usability issues.

Industrial design agency RKS Design collaborated with Hamilton Medical, a leader in respiratory ventilators and medical devices, to create the Hamilton T1, a new category of mobile ventilators optimized for first responders. The goal was to integrate the critical features of full-sized ventilators into a compact, portable unit suitable for use in various demanding environments such as accident scenes and natural disasters.

RKS Design rendered the following services:

  • Research, insights, and interviews
  • Psycho-Aesthetics™ methodology or creating emotional connections between the product and the user
  • Design and usability enhancement
  • Technical and functional integration
  • Product and UI design
  • Collaboration and iterative development

The features of the mobile ventilator, Hamilton T1, included:

  • Portability
  • Multifunctionality as a transport, ICU, and MRI-compatible respirator
  • Durability
  • High-performance capability

The Hamilton T1 Ventilator combines high capabilities with user-centric design and innovative technology, making it suitable for a wide range of medical applications. The careful design considerations, such as soft-touch rubber bumpers and smart connection points, set a new standard in the industry.

The T1's transport and in-hospital capability combination demonstrates RKS Design and Hamilton Medical's successful collaboration, resulting in a device that exceeded expectations and exceptional performance in critical care situations.

What is the difference between product design and industrial design companies?

The difference between product design and industrial design companies lies in their areas of focus, scope of work, disciplines, and deliverables.

Product design companies typically concentrate on designing specific products, considering aesthetics and functionality to meet user needs and market demands. On the other hand, industrial design companies have a broader focus that includes optimizing the entire product lifecycle, manufacturing processes, and system efficiencies, often incorporating engineering and ergonomic considerations.

Product design companies:

  • Emphasize user experience and usability of individual products.
  • Focus on aesthetic appeal and marketability.
  • Develop prototypes and refine product functionality based on user feedback.

Meanwhile, industrial design companies:

  • Optimize products for manufacturing efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
  • Integrate ergonomic principles to enhance user comfort and safety.
  • Address the overall lifecycle of products, including material selection and sustainability.

How much do industrial design agencies charge for their services?

Industrial design agencies charge $40 to $400 per hour for their services.

Besides the hourly pricing, they may also charge fixed fees or fees with equity pricing. The latter is a payment model where an industrial design firm works on a project at a reduced rate in exchange for royalties or equity. This method involves a lower upfront payment, supplemented by a share in the product's future success.

The top 50 industrial design companies on DesignRush charge an average of $101 per hour. Only 1.5% accept projects with a minimum budget of $1,000, while 3.9% require a $50,000 minimum budget.

Why should I hire an industrial design company?

You should hire an industrial design company because it has the expertise, experience, and tools that enable you to fully leverage advanced design technologies and processes for your project.

Here are the benefits that come with working with a specialized firm:

  • Improved user experience: Implementing solutions that mainly serve your needs and your target audience's preferences
  • Reduced development costs: Using established tools and templates that trim on time and other resources
  • Structured workflows and heightened productivity: Having well-defined processes and leveraging the industry's best practices customized to your advantage
  • Enhanced brand authority: Producing high-quality output that satisfies market demands
  • Stronger relationship with customers: Understanding and adequately addressing the customers' needs and pain points
  • Increased market reach: Tapping into new markets and expanding presence in your current niche
  • Manufacturing efficiency: Optimizing operations and product consistency for faster time-to-market

When a client needed a proprietary handheld warehouse scanner, industrial design firm Studio Red built F2022. The product was a durable scanner powered by smartphone integrations. The agency developed a new design language that conveyed the brand attributes, such as intelligence, speed, and rigid appearance. Studio Red also prioritized usability and ergonomics, conducting numerous iterations to perfect the handle and trigger for comfort during extended use.

The Good Design Awards and the International Design Awards (IDA) highlighted the F2022's innovative design, success, functionality, and appeal, a testimony to Studio Red’s impressive work.

How do I choose the best industrial design agency for my business?

Choosing the best industrial design agency for your business involves several steps that will help you make an informed decision:

  1. Define your project scope: Identify your goals and determine your budget allocation.
  2. Research potential agencies: Look online through Google and specialized directories like DesignRush. These platforms offer comprehensive lists and detailed profiles of various agencies, helping you find the right fit for your project needs. Look for a firm with experience specific to your industry.
  3. Check track record and online testimonials: Review their portfolios for high-quality projects like yours. Read client reviews and case studies. Look for creativity and ability to solve complex design problems, backed by awards and other recognitions.
  4. Evaluate their design process: Ensure they emphasize user-centered design involving user research, prototyping, and testing. Check if they employ modern techniques and how they stay updated with design trends.
  5. Assess technical expertise: See if they have capabilities for rapid prototyping, 3D modeling, and comprehensive testing. They should understand manufacturing processes and materials to ensure feasible and cost-effective designs.
  6. Consider their teams: Find companies whose team members possess diverse skills, such as in engineering, UI/UX design, and materials expertise, among others.
  7. Create a shortlist of candidates: Based on your initial assessment, build a shortlist of up to five industrial design firms. Communicate your intent to potentially collaborate with them, send them requests for proposals (RFPs), and schedule interviews.
  8. Conduct interviews: Ask the final candidates essential and challenging questions to get to know them better and understand their processes more elaborately. Observe how they communicate and discuss their custom proposals.
  9. Choose your agency partner: Create a matrix to evaluate each agency based on your criteria, such as expertise, portfolio quality, cost, and communication. Based on your findings, select the firm with the strongest potential for a successful partnership with you.

Let DesignRush assist you in your search for the ideal industrial design company. Head to our Marketplace and send us a brief overview of your project. We’ll connect you with agencies best suited to your needs — for free.

How do I find the best industrial design company on DesignRush that fits my budget?

To find the best industrial design company on DesignRush that fits your budget, use our filter functionality. Sort your options based on minimum budget and affordable hourly rates.

Here are some of the most accessible industrial design agencies on the platform in terms of hourly fees:

What questions should I ask industrial design agencies before hiring one?

Ask these questions when hiring an industrial design agency:

Its Relevant Background

  1. Can you provide examples of previous projects similar to mine?
  2. What industries have you worked in before?
  3. Can you provide references from past clients?
  4. What is the size and structure of your design team?
  5. How do you stay updated with the latest design trends and technologies?
  6. What are your key strengths as an industrial design agency?
  7. What is your experience with designing for international markets?

Its Services and Processes

  1. What is your design process from concept to final product?
  2. Do you offer prototyping and testing services?
  3. How do you handle revisions and feedback during the design process?
  4. What kind of research do you conduct before starting a project?
  5. How do you ensure that your designs are manufacturable and cost-effective?
  6. Do you provide services related to UI/UX design?
  7. What software and tools do you use for designing and prototyping?
  8. Can you assist with protecting the designs' intellectual property (IP)?
  9. What are your typical turnaround times for different project phases?

Related to Your Project

  1. How do you tailor your approach to meet specific project requirements?
  2. What information do you need from us to start the project?
  3. How do you ensure that the design aligns with our brand and vision?
  4. What is your process for creating a project timeline and milestones?
  5. Can you provide a detailed breakdown of your pricing and payment structure?
  6. How do you handle unforeseen changes or challenges during the project?
  7. What is your policy on project confidentiality and data security?
  8. Can you provide ongoing support and updates after the project is completed?

What are the best industrial design companies in the US?

The best industrial design companies in the US are:

  • PKG Brand Design
    • 4.6 stars on DesignRush (5 reviews)
    • Top clients: Yakult, Coleman, Bumble Bee, Columbia Fruit
  • Jackson Hedden
    • 4.9 stars on DesignRush (13 reviews)
    • 4.7 stars on Google (27 reviews)
    • Top clients: Lamborghini, Bentley Motors, Lego, Kodak
  • Concepto Studios
    • 5.0 stars on Google (12 reviews)
    • Top clients: Black and Decker, Remington, Office Depot, Loto Labs
  • Whipsaw
    • 5.0 stars on Google (2 reviews)
    • Top clients: Google, Uber, Nike, Samsung
  • Karten Design
    • 4.7 stars on Google (3 reviews)
    • Top clients: Abbott, Axonics Modulation Technologies, Baxter Healthcare, Boston Scientific

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