10 Industrial Design Interview Questions and Answers for Product Designers

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in Industrial Design?

Since I was a child, I’ve always been fascinated with how things are designed and put together. I would spend hours taking apart and rebuilding my toys, trying to improve their functionality and aesthetics. As I grew older, my fascination with design expanded to the world around me, from the cars I saw on the street to the furniture in my home.

In college, I studied graphic design, but I found myself constantly drawn to the engineering and materials courses. I knew that I wanted to go beyond the 2D world of graphic design and create physical products that people could touch and interact with.

One experience that solidified my interest in industrial design was when I interned at a startup that designed and manufactured electric bicycles. As part of the team, I was able to contribute to the design and user experience of the product, and I saw firsthand how design could impact the functionality and success of a product. Seeing the joy on customers’ faces as they test rode our bikes and hearing their feedback was incredibly rewarding.

Since then, I’ve worked on various projects ranging from consumer electronics to medical devices. I find myself constantly inspired by the potential for design to solve problems and improve people’s lives. For example, in my last project, we designed a portable solar-powered water filtration system for a rural community. It was incredibly fulfilling to see firsthand how our design gave people access to clean drinking water and improved their quality of life.

Overall, I was drawn to industrial design because of the opportunity to create tangible products that have a real impact on people’s lives. I look forward to continuing to push the boundaries of design and innovation in my career.

2. Can you walk me through your design process when tasked with a new product?

When I am tasked with a new product, my design process can be divided into several stages:

1. Research: First, I conduct extensive research on the product's target audience, competitors, industry trends, and user needs. This involves analyzing user feedback, conducting user interviews or surveys, and reviewing market research data. For example, when I was designing a new line of ergonomic office chairs, I conducted user interviews and surveys to determine common pain points and preferences among office workers. This research helped inform my design decisions.
2. Ideation: After completing my research, I move on to the ideation phase. This is where I brainstorm ideas and sketch multiple concepts. I consider the research findings, as well as the product's functionality, aesthetics, and feasibility. During this stage, I also gather feedback from colleagues and stakeholders. For instance, when designing a new line of headphones, I sketched multiple concepts and presented them to my team for feedback. This collaboration helped us narrow down the best design direction.
3. Prototyping: Once I have a solid concept, I create a prototype. This involves using software tools such as Sketch or Adobe Illustrator to create 2D or 3D designs. I also use 3D printing technology to create physical prototypes that I can test and refine. For example, when designing a new line of kitchen gadgets, I created several 3D-printed prototypes to test the product's functionality and ergonomics.
4. Testing: After creating a prototype, I test it to ensure it meets user needs and requirements. This involves gathering feedback from users and conducting usability tests. I also test the product's functionality, durability, and safety. For instance, when designing a new line of camping gear, I conducted usability tests with campers to ensure the gear was easy to set up and use.
5. Iteration: Based on the feedback received during testing, I iterate and refine the design. This may involve making small tweaks or significant changes to the product's design. I also use data and analytics to inform my design decisions. For example, when designing a new fitness tracker, I analyzed user data to determine which features were most used and which could be improved.
6. Finalization: Once I have a finalized design, I work with the development team to ensure the product is manufactured efficiently and to the highest quality standards. I also work with the marketing team to ensure the product's branding and messaging align with the target audience. For example, when designing a new line of smart speakers, I worked with the development team to ensure the speakers were manufactured with the latest technology and with the marketing team to create messaging that resonated with music lovers.

Overall, my design process is iterative and data-driven, with a strong emphasis on user-centered design. By conducting extensive research, ideation, prototyping, testing, iteration, and finalization, I can create products that meet user needs and exceed expectations.

3. How do you stay current with design trends and advancements in technology?

Staying current with design trends and advancements in technology is crucial for any designer, including myself. Here are three ways I do it:

1. Follow design blogs and websites

   I make sure to follow popular design blogs and websites such as Behance, Design Milk, and Core77. These sources provide a wealth of information on current design trends and new technologies.

2. Attend design conferences and events

   I regularly attend design conferences and events, such as the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) conference and Maker Faire. These events provide valuable opportunities to network and learn about new design trends and technologies.

3. Experiment with new design tools and techniques

   I enjoy experimenting with new design tools and techniques, such as virtual and augmented reality. By doing so, I stay up to date with the latest technologies and design methods.

In my previous role at XYZ Company, I implemented these strategies to create a new line of products that received a 15% increase in sales compared to the previous year. By staying current with design trends and advancements in technology, I was able to create products that met the current market demands and exceeded customer expectations.

4. Can you provide examples of products you’ve designed from ideation to production?

As a product designer, I’ve had the opportunity to design several products from ideation to production. One product that stands out to me is a smartwatch I designed for a tech startup.

1. I started by conducting user research and identifying pain points with existing smartwatches on the market. This helped me understand the user's needs, preferences and requirements.

2. Then, I created wireframes and several low fidelity prototypes. We tested them in-house and with a small group of participants, using user feedback to make iterative improvements.

3. Once the design was finalized, I created a high-fidelity prototype using 3D modeling software, which was then sent to the manufacturer for production.

4. Throughout the production process, I worked closely with the manufacturer to ensure that the final product met all of our design specifications.

5. The end result was a user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing smartwatch with several innovative features, including an advanced fitness monitor and a long battery life.

6. The smartwatch received positive feedback from users and garnered significant media attention, resulting in a 50% increase in sales for the tech startup.

This project taught me the importance of user research and iterative design, as well as the value of collaborating closely with manufacturers to ensure the quality and success of a product.

5. Describe a project where you had to balance design with functionality.

One project that comes to mind is a redesign of a kitchen appliance for a client. The initial design was beautifully sleek and modern, but it lacked functionality and ease of use. As the lead product designer, it was my responsibility to balance design with functionality to ensure that the final product met both the client's aesthetic and practical needs.

1. First, we conducted extensive research on the target audience and their cooking habits. This helped us identify the key features necessary for a functional kitchen appliance.
2. Next, I worked closely with the development team to explore different material options and manufacturing methods to maintain the design aesthetic while still allowing for user-friendly features.
3. I also collaborated with the user experience team to create intuitive controls and display functions that didn't compromise on the design appeal.
4. Through numerous iterations, we were able to achieve a successful balance between design and functionality.

The result was a well-rounded kitchen appliance with a sleek and modern aesthetic, intuitive controls, and added functionalities that made it stand out from the competition. The product received positive feedback from both the client and end-users, and sales increased by 25% compared to the previous model.

6. How do you approach solving design challenges and iterating on designs?

When faced with a design challenge, my first step is always to gather as much information as possible. This includes researching the industry, analyzing user feedback or previous iterations, and identifying any constraints or limitations.

Once I have a solid understanding of the challenge at hand, I typically start ideating and sketching out potential solutions. From there, I will create prototypes or mockups to test out my ideas and get feedback from both users and stakeholders.

Iterating on designs is a crucial part of my process, as it allows me to refine and improve upon my initial concepts. I take user feedback seriously and use it to inform my decisions about which features to prioritize and which design elements to change.

To give an example of the effectiveness of my approach, in my previous role as a product designer for a furniture company, I was tasked with redesigning our most popular chair to be more ergonomic and comfortable. By conducting extensive user research and iterating on my initial designs based on feedback, I was able to increase customer satisfaction with the chair by 25% and boost sales by 15% within the first quarter of its release.

Overall, I believe that a user-focused, iterative approach to design is key to creating effective and successful products.

7. Tell me about a time when you had to work with a difficult team member or client. How did you handle it?

During my time working as a product designer at XYZ Company, I encountered a challenging situation when working with a team member who had a very different approach to design than I did. They were very particular about their vision and didn't take well to feedback or suggestions. This made it difficult for us to collaborate and caused a lot of tension between us.

1. To begin with, I made sure to stay calm and professional throughout our interactions. I knew that losing my temper or getting defensive would only make things worse.
2. I also tried to communicate my concerns with my team member in a clear and concise way, without coming across as confrontational. I explained how our differing approaches were causing issues, and asked if there was any way we could find common ground.
3. When this didn't work, I sought the advice of our project manager, who suggested we bring in a third party to mediate. We were able to find a consultant who specialized in conflict resolution and who helped us find a way to work together more effectively.
4. The end result was that we were able to come up with a design that incorporated elements from both of our perspectives, which received very positive feedback from our clients. In fact, it ended up securing a new contract for the company, which was a great achievement for us all.

Ultimately, I learned that good communication, seeking help when needed, and finding a way to compromise can lead to a positive outcome, even in difficult situations.

8. What software and tools do you typically use for your design work?

As an Industrial Designer, I have worked with a variety of software and tools throughout my career.

1. Sketch: I use Sketch for all my initial sketching and wireframing. This software has been essential in helping me quickly visualize and iterate through concepts. For example, while working on a project for a client, I was able to create over 20 unique wireframes in just one day, which ultimately helped me present a more thought-out and refined design to the client.
2. Adobe Creative Suite: Adobe Creative Suite is an essential set of tools for any Industrial Designer. I primarily use Adobe Illustrator for creating vector graphics while Adobe Photoshop has been great for creating high-quality renders and photo manipulation. For a recent project, I used Adobe Creative Suite to create custom icons and graphics for user interfaces. As a result, the project received positive feedback from the clients as well as the users.
3. 3D Modeling and CAD software: Rhino, SolidWorks and Fusion 360 are some of the 3D modeling and CAD software, I have experience working with. By utilizing these tools, I have created models of prototypes which allowed me to refine designs and catch potential issues before production started. For instance, while working on a project for a medical device, I used SolidWorks to ensure that the device was ergonomically sound and could fit within the intended workspace.
4. Prototyping tools: In addition to software, I have experience working with various physical prototyping tools as well such as laser cutters and 3D printers. For example, while working on a project for a bicycle accessory, I used a 3D printer to create a scale model and gained valuable insights by testing it with real-life scenarios. The final product had an improved design that was informed by the results of the tests.

Overall, my experience with a variety of design software and tools has allowed me to be a versatile and efficient Industrial Designer. I am confident that the skills and knowledge I have gained will enable me to excel in any product design role I undertake.

9. What design principles do you believe are most important in Industrial Design?

As an Industrial Designer, I believe that form should always follow function. This means that the final product should not only look good but also perform its intended function seamlessly. For example, in my previous role at XYZ Company, I designed a kitchen tool that was not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also had multiple functions, such as being able to peel and slice fruits and vegetables.

1. Another important design principle is usability. A product should be easy to use and intuitive for the end-user. In my experience, I designed a medical device that needed to be used by patients with mobility issues. I ensured that the device was lightweight and easy to use with one hand.
2. Consistency in design is also key. A product’s design should be consistent with the brand language, and also consistent across all the product’s features. For example, I designed a range of home appliances that had a consistent design language and were easily recognizable as belonging to the same brand.
3. Scalability is also an important design principle. The design should be able to scale with the product’s growth and future iterations. I designed a modular furniture system that could be easily scaled up or down depending on the user’s needs.
4. Another important design principle is sustainability. A product should be designed considering its impact on the environment. In my previous company, I designed packaging that was biodegradable and made from recycled materials. The packaging not only reduced waste but was also cost-effective for the company.
5. Lastly, I believe that emotional design is important. A product should connect with the user on an emotional level, creating a positive experience that encourages brand loyalty. For example, I designed a product for children that was not only functional but also had a fun and playful design, which led to positive user feedback and increased sales.

10. Can you walk me through a time when you had to design for user experience, and how did you tackle the challenge?

Yes, of course. In my previous job, I was tasked with redesigning the checkout process for an e-commerce website. As the objective was to improve the user experience, I knew I had to gather data on what was currently causing issues for users.

1. I started by analyzing user behavior data and conducting user interviews to identify friction points in the existing checkout process.
2. Based on that research, I developed several prototypes for a new checkout process, with different approaches for addressing the identified friction points.
3. I then conducted usability tests with a sample of users to gauge the effectiveness of these prototypes.
4. Based on the test results, I iterated on the prototypes, until I had a final design that was more intuitive and user-friendly.
5. Finally, I implemented the new checkout process on the website and monitored user behavior data to see if there was any improvement in the conversion rate.

As a result of the redesign, the website's conversion rate increased by 15%, which was a significant improvement. Additionally, user feedback indicated higher satisfaction with the new checkout process.

Conclusion

Preparing for an industrial design interview can be daunting, but with these 10 frequently asked questions and detailed answers, you can feel confident and prepared. Beyond acing the interview, it's important to write a great cover letter (write a great cover letter) and prepare an impressive product designer CV (prepare an impressive product designer CV). If you're looking for a new job, don't forget to search through our remote Product Designer job board (remote Product Designer job board) to find the perfect opportunity.