Industrial Design Firm SOPs

This template contains Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for an industrial design firm, detailing processes from client onboarding to manufacturing handoff. SOP 1 outlines the client onboarding process, emphasizing qualification, discovery, proposal, and kickoff stages. It sets expectations for communication and documentation, ensuring a smooth start to projects. SOP 2 describes the design project workflow, covering research, concept development, CAD modeling, prototyping, and finalization. It stresses structured management and client feedback integration.

SOP 3 focuses on design research and concept development, highlighting market analysis, user research, and brainstorming techniques. It guides the creation of innovative concepts aligned with client needs and market trends. SOP 4 details prototyping and testing, explaining the creation of low to high-fidelity prototypes and various testing methods for functionality and usability. It emphasizes iterating based on test results and client feedback.

SOP 5 covers CAD modeling and engineering documentation, specifying software use, file formats, and the creation of accurate technical drawings. It ensures designs are manufacturable and compliant with industry standards. SOP 6 addresses client communication and feedback management, outlining guidelines for meetings, updates, and addressing concerns. It emphasizes clear, professional communication and structured feedback collection.

SOP 7 discusses the manufacturing handoff and production support, ensuring a smooth transition from design to production. It includes preparing documentation, coordinating with manufacturers, and resolving production issues. SOP 8 focuses on proposal and contract management, detailing the creation, review, and execution of proposals and contracts to protect both the firm and the client. It also covers amendments and scope changes.

Finally, SOPs 9 and 10 cover quality control, design validation, risk management, and design compliance. SOP 9 ensures quality standards, functional requirements, and manufacturing feasibility through various testing and inspection stages. SOP 10 identifies, mitigates, and manages risks, ensuring compliance with regulations, safety standards, and intellectual property rights. It also emphasizes continuous improvement and post-production risk review.