Stage 1: Scoping
In the first stage you make a preliminary assessment of the technical requirements for product development and the product's potential in the marketplace.
The technical requirements check can be done with an in-house appraisal to clarify manufacturing feasibility, possible costs and approximate development time. Contact the relevant departments and colleges.
A variety of activities can be used for the market assessment: a library search, contacts with key customers, focus groups, and a quick concept test with potential users. The purpose is to get a brief overview of the market potential and likely market acceptance.