Product Design Specification

Product Design Specification (PDS) is a document that outlines the requirements and features of a product, as agreed upon by the designers and the client.

The PDS keeps everything on track; it ensures that the design is focused and driven by core goals.

It begins with a value proposition: Why make the product in the first place? What does it do, who would use it, who would buy it?

Next, the scope: What are the product requirements? Form, function, usability, safety?

The PDS specifies the product’s target market/industry, how much it is expected to cost (sell vs produce), and even how it will be serviced.

Everything from the costed bill of materials to end-of-life considerations is included.

Of course, the PDS can – and often does – change. But having a roadmap keeps everyone on the same page. 

This is why, at Tensen Design, one of the first steps our team takes in the product development road map is to develop a PDS document. 

Developing a PDS early on, ensures that the team is aligned with the client's expectations, design requirements and is moving in the right direction.