Packaging is not as simple as putting a product into a plastic container. The fact is, packaging is a complex process with different types and multiple stages. There are three types of packaging processes: primary, secondary, and tertiary. There are also various stages within each process, such as concept sketches, 3D modelling, prototyping, design files, and production or manufacturing. One of the most important stages in the packaging process is prototyping. To help gain a better understanding of the prototyping stage, the stage will be examined more closely in the primary packaging process.
The Prototype
A prototype is an initial model of a design. This is where the original idea of the design is transformed into an actual tangible 3D object. A prototype is often created to evaluate the novel design or concept, help people visualize the designs, and aid in initiating discussions and base decisions. Typical prototypes for the primary packaging process are glass or transparent plastic containers and blister packs in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries.
The Primary Packaging Process
The primary packaging process involves creating a package for the actual product. Primary packaging may also include a label on the package container to describe the contents. In primary packaging, the package comes in direct contact with or is the closest to the contents of the products. This type of packaging can be referred to as retail or consumer packaging since it can sometimes be the package associated with the product itself. Primary packaging also helps to contain and protect the product from possible contamination from the outside. The prototyping stage in this process enables the package design to undergo careful inspection to ensure it meets all specifications.
The Prototyping Stage
The prototyping stage is the third stage in the primary packaging process, and it comes after approved concept sketches and generated 3D modeling. During the prototyping stage, various 3D prototypes of the design are made, tested, and refined. Ultimately, at the end of the prototyping stage, the originally designed prototype is perfected until achieving the complete specifications and needs of the product for the industry client. Listed below are reasons why the prototyping stage is critical in developing the primary packaging process.
- The tangible 3D mock-ups are made to help clients see how the final package will look visually and feel functionally. The prototype packaging must not only look appealing, but it must also be fully workable—meaning they can move the way they were designed.
- The prototyping stage also involves testing the prototypes and analyzing for any issues or problems with the original design. Consideration should be given to the chosen material and if it is the most appropriate option for the contents. Additionally, the material must also protect the contents or product in the packaging.
- The prototyping stage may sometimes require creating multiple prototypes and refining them based on different concerns identified throughout the process. This stage gives clients an opportunity to voice design edits and alterations to improve the prototype. If an issue is found with the materials, the way the prototype looks or feels, or the functioning of the prototype, then the option is available to adjust the prototype to meet the desired requirements. This ability to hone in on concerns and advance upon the prototype is critical to the success of the prototyping stage.
Prototyping Saves Time and Money
The prototyping stage avoids going through the entire primary packaging process and making the package all based on theoretical designs. Prototyping can help make the manufacturing of the packages much easier and more efficient by reducing material waste during production. Therefore, prototyping can assist with saving the overall bottom line for clients.
Why Choose Design Innovation Development?
Trust that Design Innovation Development (DiD) knows packaging. DiD has over 60 years of experience and is a full-service design, innovation, and development agency dedicated to meeting all primary packaging needs for the pharmaceutical and healthcare markets. Prototypes are created with approved designs at DiD, and the prototyping stage is genuinely appreciated to achieve high-quality packaging design development. Reach out to DiD to discuss packaging goals today.
