Author: 33A5f3aF

Moving to our new office in Fawkham

Written by 33A5f3aF on February 25, 2021. Posted in Business.

Today marks the start of a new chapter for Cornelius Creative. We’re excited to announce we are moving to a new office in the village of Fawkham, Kent. As the business has grown over the past year the time has come for a larger office space.

Our new office is based in the heart of Fawkham Valley, a beautiful rural area surrounded by golf courses, fields and woodland. We’re located next to a working farm in a barn shared by other local businesses.

We are also close to Brands Hatch Racing Circuit (we’re looking forward to arranging corporate days there in the future!)

Just down the road is a central village green with a great pub (The Rising Sun), which again, we’re looking forward to visiting once lockdown eases.

Fawkham is easily accessed by road – the M20, A20 and M25 are all nearby. Longfield rail station is 5 minutes’ drive, while Ebbsfleet International, which has highspeed links into London and Europe, is around 15 minutes away.

Our new address is:

The Black Barn
Gay Dawn Farm
Valley Road
Fawkham
Longfield
Kent
DA3 8LY

Our new phone numbers are 01474 368654 and 07884 288868.

We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Have a read of our story so far on Kent Live.

Top product trends to watch in 2021

Written by 33A5f3aF on February 16, 2021. Posted in Design.

Can you believe it’s February? So much has happened this year already; an attempted coup in the US Capitol, a new US president, the Covid vaccine rollout… 2021 has started with a bang and shows no signs of slowing down.

If we think back to this time last year, we had no idea what was in store for us. By February 2020, most of us were starting to become aware of a Coronavirus “issue” in China, although some of us had never heard of Wuhan before – remember that blissful time? We’re unlikely to forget it now.

Any plans that brands had for 2020 quickly went out of the window.

As I explained in my video on post-Covid marketing trends some companies have been able to thrive in the pandemic – they diversified their proposition and were quick to adapt to rapidly changing situations.

But when it comes to product design and development, the process is typically much longer than marketing. Product development cannot be done overnight; the process has many stages that take time. Changes can be made at any point, of course, but they can have huge repercussions on the rest of the development process, and the budget of course.

So, while it looks like 2021 will be similar to 2020 in many ways – it’s unlikely many of us will be travelling much this year, and working from home will continue for lots of us – what product design trends will emerge this year?

The annual Consumer Electronics Show held in Las Vegas every January is a good marker for the type of tech products that’ll be launched that year. In 2021 the conference was held virtually, but there were still plenty of product trends that emerged.

Smart money on Smart products

Smart products have been around for a few years and many homes have at least one, typically a smart speaker or video doorbell. And although we’re used to the term “smart home”, the reality is that most of these products don’t learn our habits, they are simply connected via the internet and are controlled by our devices.

But this will change over the coming years; home products will start to learn our habits and adapt their behaviour using Artificial Intelligence (AI). Some are already doing this, such as the Nest thermostat, but we will see more AI driven technology with products being able to think, learn and make decisions.

These products are already being developed. The Nobi smart lamp has been designed to offer extra care to vulnerable and elderly users – it can detect irregular motions, such as falls, to alert carers. And the Toto wellness concept toilet will analyse waste product and offer personal health recommendations – so in the future both our GP and toilet will be telling us to eat more fibre!

Cleaning up

If the past year has taught us anything it’s how easily germs can spread. The demand for cleaning products has grown considerably, often surpassing supply (remember when hand sanitiser was selling for £120 on Amazon?). And as more workplaces and public spaces reopen, new cleaning and safety measures will be implemented to prevent the spread of the virus. So, it’s likely we’ll see a trend for hygiene and cleaning in new product design.

Take this self-cleaning bedsheet from Nordifakt, for example. Made from 100% organic cotton treated with Polygiene, a silver chloride treatment that acts as a natural disinfectant, the bedsheet breaks down germs, Volatile Organic Compounds and mould to stay clean and smelling fresh with no need for washing. And when you consider that after one week the average bedsheet has 17,442 more bacteria than a toilet seat, a self-cleaning sheet certainly has some appeal.

It’s likely that touch free products will also grow in popularity, Kohler has developed a number of touchless bathroom fixtures including a toilet and tap, and we designed a concept bathroom tap that is both touch-free and has a timer to tell the user when they have washed their hands for the recommended 20 seconds.

Let the good tech roll

It’s a bit of a Marmite development but like it or not, rollable/foldable technology is here. For the most part, the tech has been developed into mobile phones, but it is being rolled out (pardon the pun) to laptops and even space-saving rollable TVs, if you have a spare £63,000 that is.

Foldable phones were debuted at CES 2019, but the technology has been 10 years in the making. The initial launches from Samsung and Motorola have been struck with a few design glitches, but the companies seem determined to make flexible displays the next big thing.

(Anyone remember when curved TVs were the next big thing?)

So, is it just a gimmick or will we all have folding phones in our pockets in five years? (Couldn’t we just go back to flip phones?)

There are some advantages to folding tech; the ability to run multiple apps simultaneously, a more immersive experience when consuming media, and of course the obvious space-saving convenience.

Cornelius Creative Managing Director Simon says: “

“The advent of flexible screen technology removes some of the boundaries of traditional screened devices. For a designer, having the freedom to design a product without the limitations of a fixed sized display screen opens up a whole plethora of new and interesting shapes. The next stage is for spray on or mouldable screen technology, which opens up opportunities to apply screens onto organic forms.”

Meeting personal values

Consumer habits are changing and with this shift is a desire to support products and brands that align with our personal values. The rise of ethical consumption and conscious consumerism is having a direct impact on product design, with more consumers choosing to buy products with no negative consequences on people, planet or animals:

“Carbon offsets are no longer enough; consumers will consider the impact of product disposal when making purchase decisions. Brands will respond with products and processes that reduce and remove more greenhouse gas than their companies emit.”
Mintel 2021 Global Consumer Trends

And it’s not just intent, consumers are staying true to their word. Hotwire reported in 2019 that 47% of internet users had moved away from buying products from brands that violated their personal values, a claim that is also backed up by Harvard Business Review.

“From product, packaging, experience, service and sustainability, designers must strive to meet the demands of the increasingly discerning consumer.”
Design Week, Jan 2021

Manufacturers need to consider sustainability in product development to evolve beyond recyclable packaging to encompass all aspects of design, production and manufacturing, and is respectful of the choice of mindful purchasers. For example, Whole Earth suggests alternative uses for their 1kg peanut butter tub once it’s finished, from storing bird seed to taking bagels to work.

Consumers are also increasingly demanding brands recognise inequalities and injustices around the globe and use their platform to take a stand, whether it’s against exploiting workers or speaking out against systemic racism by supporting the Black Lives Matter movement.

Each year during Pride there are floods of companies that jump on the LGBTQ+ bandwagon; launching rainbow-themed products and changing their logo, but consumers have cottoned on to the lack of substance and are now choosing companies that actually support LGBTQ+ charities through the sale of such products.

So, there you have our top product design trend predictions for 2021. Do you agree? Or do you think other trends will emerge this year? Leave your thoughts below!

We’re looking forward to developing and launching lots of new products this year, if you’re looking for help with product design and marketing, speak to our team today.

Photo credit: Unsplash

Unlocking the Potential of 3D Printed Prototypes: Why Collaborating with a 3D Printing Company Matters

Written by 33A5f3aF on January 26, 2021. Posted in 3D Printing.

Bringing a new product to market can be exciting, but also complex, of course. One of the most critical stages in the product development process is prototyping: turning your design from a CAD file or sketch into something real, tangible, and able to be tested.

Today, businesses across various industries are increasingly turning to a 3D printing company to produce their prototypes. Why? Because 3D printing has revolutionised the way we approach design testing and product development – delivering speed, cost efficiency, and flexibility that traditional methods can’t compete with.

Here’s a look at the key benefits of creating a 3D printed prototype and why it should be an essential step in your next product development project.

1. Rapid Prototyping Speeds Up Time to Market

Before 3D printing became mainstream, producing a prototype was a slow and often expensive process. Traditional methods, like CNC machining or injection moulding, could take weeks or even months to deliver a working model. Each design revision meant further delays and more cost.

By contrast, a 3D printing company can produce a prototype within hours or days, depending on the complexity of the design. Designers and engineers can test, refine, and reprint their models in quick succession, dramatically reducing development time and accelerating the journey from concept to production-ready product.

This speed enables businesses to be more agile, responding faster to customer feedback, testing new concepts quickly, and beating competitors to market.

2. Cost-Effective Product Development

Traditional prototyping methods often require expensive tooling, specialised machinery, and skilled labour to operate. For small businesses or start-ups, these costs can be a major barrier.

Working with a 3D printing company is far more cost-effective. 3D printers use an additive manufacturing process, building objects layer by layer from digital files. This method reduces the need for tooling and minimises material waste, significantly lowering overall costs.

Because changes can be made directly to the CAD file and reprinted without starting from scratch, it’s also a cost-efficient way to refine a design iteratively.

3. Less Waste, More Sustainability

Sustainability is an increasingly important consideration in product design and development. Traditional subtractive manufacturing processes often result in significant material waste, as parts are carved from larger blocks of material.

With 3D printing, waste is greatly reduced. Only the exact amount of material required to produce the object is used, which not only lowers material costs but also supports more sustainable practices – something that consumers and stakeholders are increasingly prioritising.

4. Enhanced Design Flexibility and Customisation

Working with a 3D printing company opens the door to a level of design freedom not possible with traditional manufacturing. Complex geometries, intricate detailing, and lightweight structures can all be created with precision – without increasing costs or lead times.

This is particularly useful during early-stage development, when designers need to explore multiple versions of a concept or test different configurations. With 3D printing, customisation is quick and easy, supporting a more creative and experimental design process.

5. A Competitive Advantage in Sales and Investment

Having a high-quality, tangible prototype to show clients, investors, or stakeholders can be a game-changer.

It’s far easier to build trust and excitement when someone can hold your product in their hands, rather than view it on a screen. Whether you’re looking for investor funding, pitching a new product line, or securing pre-orders, a physical prototype adds professionalism and credibility to your pitch.

Prototypes also help uncover design flaws early, reducing the risk of costly mistakes once manufacturing begins. This proactive approach leads to better products, and a smoother path to commercial success.

3D printing is a quick and cost effective way to build a prototype

Partner with a 3D Printing Company You Can Trust

At Cornelius Creative, we work closely with our clients to bring their ideas to life – fast. As part of our product development service, we offer in-house 3D printed prototypes, allowing for quick turnaround and high-quality results. And for more advanced or specialist prototypes, we also collaborate with our trusted 3D printing partners.

Whether you’re refining an idea or getting ready for manufacturing, we can help you create a prototype that delivers impact and moves your project forward.

Ready to Push ‘Print’?

If you’re looking for a reliable 3D printing company to support your next product prototype, we’d love to help. Our expert team can guide you through the process – from concept to printed prototype – with speed, efficiency, and creative insight.

📞 Call us on 01474 368654 or 📧 email us today to discuss your project.

Meeting with patent drawing to protect intellectual property

Protect Your Intellectual Property: What Manufacturing Leaders Need to Know

Written by 33A5f3aF on November 15, 2020. Posted in Intellectual Property.

In today’s manufacturing landscape, innovation is your competitive edge – and protecting it is essential. Whether you’re designing a breakthrough product or refining a unique production process, intellectual property (IP) represents some of your most valuable business assets. And if these assets are used without permission, it can cause your business to suffer.

Yet, for many UK manufacturing companies, the question remains:

How do you effectively protect intellectual property before someone else profits from your hard work?

What is Intellectual Property and Why Should You Care?

Intellectual property refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, designs, brand names, and proprietary processes, that hold commercial value. For UK manufacturing businesses, this could include a new mechanical component, a unique manufacturing method, or even your brand identity.

The purpose of IP law is simple: it gives your business exclusive rights to use, produce, and benefit financially from your innovation. Without proper protection in place, others may legally exploit your ideas, sometimes without your knowledge – resulting in lost revenue, reduced market share, and damage to your reputation.

In the digital age, the risks are even greater. With the rapid exchange of information online, trade secrets and technical designs are more vulnerable to theft than ever before. This is why every manufacturing CEO and manager should treat IP protection as a strategic priority – not an afterthought.

Ways to Protect Intellectual Property in Manufacturing

Whether you’re a start-up or a well-established SME, taking proactive steps to protect your IP is non-negotiable. Here’s how to start:

1. Secure Your Product Concepts

If your business has developed a new product or design, consider applying for:

Patents – for inventions or new processes
Registered Designs – to protect the appearance of a product
Trademarks – to secure your brand name, logo, or slogan
Copyright – for artistic works, manuals, software, and more

Each of these tools serves a different purpose, but together they can form a powerful shield around your intellectual assets. Remember: once your concept is in the public domain, it’s much harder to assert ownership.

2. Implement NDAs and Confidentiality Agreements

Before sharing sensitive information with employees, suppliers, or external partners, ensure that everyone involved signs a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). This simple legal step can significantly reduce the risk of leaks or IP theft.

3. Keep IP Protection Scalable

One of the biggest misconceptions is that only large corporations can afford to protect intellectual property. The truth is that IP protection can, and should, scale with your business. Even small and medium-sized manufacturers can secure their innovations early with the right legal advice.

4. Update Your IP Strategy as You Grow

As your business evolves, so should your IP strategy. That might mean filing new patents for upgraded products or expanding your trademark coverage to new markets. Regularly reviewing your IP portfolio ensures that your competitive edge remains secure and legally enforced.

The Cost of Doing Nothing

Neglecting to protect intellectual property can lead to serious consequences. You may find that a competitor has reverse engineered your product, or that a former employee has used your confidential designs in a rival company.

Without formal protection, your options for legal recourse are limited, and often expensive. By proactively defending your IP, you’re not just protecting your assets; you’re safeguarding the long-term viability and profitability of your business.

Need Help Protecting Your Intellectual Property?

At Cornelius Creative, we understand how daunting it can be to navigate the world of IP law, especially when you’re focused on product development, production timelines, and scaling your business. That’s why we work with trusted UK patent attorneys and IP specialists who can help you secure the right protection from day one.

protect intellectual property - patent drawing

Whether you have a new product idea, an innovative manufacturing process, or a brand that’s gaining market traction, we’ll guide you through the steps to protect your intellectual property effectively and affordably.

Don’t leave your hard-earned innovations exposed.

Contact Cornelius Creative today to speak with our team about how to protect your IP and take your ideas to market with confidence.

Contact our team

Key Product Marketing Trends for 2021 (after Covid-19)

Written by 33A5f3aF on November 3, 2020. Posted in Business, Marketing.

We recently published our latest video detailing our predictions for product marketing trends after the Coronavirus pandemic is over (if that day will ever come!)

You can watch the video below, or alternatively scroll down for a transcript. What do you think businesses will need to focus on to survive in a post-Covid world? Have you started to implement any of these marketing suggestions already?

Video transcription

Do you want to know the key marketing trends for 2021 and beyond? Want to know what’s likely to happen after COVID? I’ll be taking you through our top five marketing trends. So keep watching. Hi, I’m Lucy from Cornelius Creative. We’re a product design and marketing consultancy based in the south east of the UK. We help businesses and people like you to create and market amazing products. We post videos regularly on product design, marketing, and 3d printing too. So if that’s the sort of thing that you’re interested in, we’d love to have you as a subscriber. In today’s video, I’m going to be taking you through the top five marketing trends that we predict will happen after COVID. So we’re just over six months into the pandemic and it looks like Coronavirus is going to be with us for a while. It’s affected all businesses. Some have been completely unable to trade, whereas others have seen a massive boost in sales. It’s changed the way that we search and buy products. And it’s changed the type of products that we’re buying too. Now while no one has a crystal ball and knows for definite what’s going to happen in the future, we can look at what’s happened so far and make predictions. So without further ado, let’s get into our five key predictions for what’s likely to happen after the coronavirus pandemic.

1.) Invest in an online purchasing journey.

At the start of the pandemic Primark saw their sales go from £650million in March to £0 in April. And that’s because they don’t have an e-commerce platform on their website. They’ve said for years it doesn’t suit their business model, but they probably didn’t see a global pandemic coming that would stop all of their sales. So whether this will now encourage them to revisit that and add some e-commerce functionality to their website, I don’t know. Obviously when the shops did reopen in June, there were queues around the streets for people desperate to get back into Primark. So it probably didn’t affect their sales for too long, but for the rest of us that don’t have the pulling power of Primark, we need to invest in an online purchasing journey for our customers. If you’re selling products, you need to be selling them online. It’s not enough now to just be in the high street. In the wake of the pandemic, more and more customers are shopping virtually. Online sales have been around for years and businesses that have invested in an online journey for their customers will have seen the payoff during the pandemic as more and more people choose to shop virtually. This means that now more than ever, a seamless online journey for your customers is vital. Brands need to put user experience at the heart of their online marketing activity. It’s not enough for retailers to just highlight their products’ features and benefits. You need to build trust with your customers, some of which may be new to online shopping. So whether that’s using user generated content, such as videos and images, showing your products in use, or displaying reviews and feedback from past customers, both of which will create confidence with your new customer base.

2.) Voice activation will grow and evolve

The way that we use the internet to search for products and services is changing and voice search is becoming much more common, especially amongst the younger generation. 55% of teenagers use voice search on a daily basis, and mobile devices now all come with voice activation inbuilt. But it’s not just mobile devices. There are so many voice activated home devices now available to buy; think of the Amazon Echo or Google Home. People are becoming much more comfortable with using voice search to explore the internet, do shopping and connect with loved ones as well. So businesses that are developing products need to bear this in mind and consider adding smart features like voice activation when they’re developing new products. Think of a fridge that can tell you when your milk is running out or a kettle that can boil itself when asked. These are the sorts of products that are going to be developed over the next few years.

3.) Embrace user generated content

It’s an uncertain world that we’re living in, so customers have reverted to brands that have excellent customer service values. Building trust with your audience is key to gaining their custom and a great way to build trust with your audience is to provide user-generated content. So that could be videos and images of your products being used. Peer generated content is deemed to be 92% more trustworthy than traditional advertising. And it increases the engagement and time spent on your social media platform and website. We share our lives online now more than ever. It helps us to stay connected to our loved ones. And we’re more than happy to provide recommendations for products that we love. Think about how many times you’ve posted about a product that you really love, and you’ve shared it with your loved ones. So businesses can use this to their advantage, whether it’s creating a hashtag for your customers to use, or perhaps running a competition for them to enter if they post a video of your product being used.

4.) Brands will need to learn to become more agile

During the height of the pandemic it seemed like things changed on an almost daily basis. And the brands that were successful were the ones that were able to jump on these changes and use them to their advantage, to create content and campaigns quickly. It meant adapting to a new culture, potentially reducing the amount of approvals that were needed for campaigns, and being able to create content very, very quickly. With a lot of people working from home, it meant hosting meetings via zoom became the norm, which was quite out of the comfort zone for a lot of us. There were many TV adverts that were broadcast at the height of the pandemic and they would have had the slots booked for many months previously. So they would have had to have adapted their content, because perhaps the campaigns that they were running previously weren’t relevant anymore. A lot of these brands utilised user generated content. So people filming themselves from their homes, where everyone was staying at home. And a lot of the themes changed to be around community and looking out for each other, the sort of new priorities that were important to us at the time. One of the adverts that stood out to me was the Tesco ‘little helps’ advert. It was a practical insight into the new user experience of their supermarket. So they actually filmed what it would be like to go around the supermarket at the markings on the floor, the perspex screens at the checkout, sanitising trolleys, perhaps having to queue at busy times. this was a really practical advert for Tesco to run, but it also reassured their customers into what was quite a scary experience for a lot of people.

5.) Diversification could make or break businesses

When the national lockdown hit, many businesses were completely unable to trade. Some businesses were able to move their trading online as I mentioned previously, to weather the storm, but others weren’t able to do that. So they had to diversify their products and services. Dyson, for example, rising to the UK government’s challenge, were able to develop an entirely new ventilator in just 30 days. And countless other brands jumped on the increase in demand for PPE. So whether that was Gap producing face masks or BrewDog producing hand sanitiser. So there you have our predictions for the five key marketing trends post COVID: online purchasing, voice activation, user-generated content, agility, and diversification. I really hope you found this video. Interesting. If you have, please give it a thumbs up and consider subscribing to our channel. We’d love to have you as a viewer. Until next time. See you soon.

Why You Should Always Prototype Your Product

Written by 33A5f3aF on September 30, 2020. Posted in 3D Printing, Design.

One of the key services we offer at Cornelius Creative is rapid prototyping using our in-house 3D printers and prototyping partners. It’s a fast, cost-effective way to bring product ideas to life – and it’s something we strongly recommend to every client.

Recently, a client asked us:
“Do I really need to prototype my product? Can’t I just go straight into production?”

It’s a fair question. But the reality is, skipping the prototyping stage can lead to costly mistakes. Prototyping isn’t just an optional extra – it’s a critical step that can save you time, money, and a lot of stress in the long run.

What is a Prototype?

A prototype is a physical 3D model of your product (or component). It shows how the final design will look and feel, and in many cases, how it will function.

Prototypes can range from basic mock-ups made from cardboard or foam, to professionally printed 3D models using plastics, metals, wood, or fabric. At Cornelius Creative, we use high-quality 3D printing to produce accurate and robust prototypes using materials best suited to your product. Depending on our client’s requirement, we will either use our suite of in-house printers or outsource to our professional printing partner.

Why Prototyping Matters

Our Managing Director, Simon, shared a video on this topic:

In short, there are three key reasons why prototyping is essential:

1. Identify Design Issues Early

3D CAD models and photorealistic renders give a good indication of your product’s appearance, but they’re no substitute for a physical model.

A prototype lets you hold the product, examine it from every angle, and spot design flaws you might otherwise miss.

Catching these issues before production means you can change the design before investing in expensive tooling or manufacturing – saving you both time and money.

2. Test Functionality and Fit

A prototype isn’t just about appearance – it’s also about performance.
Does it feel right in the hand? Do parts fit together as expected? Is it durable under normal use?

Testing these elements during the prototyping stage is far more cost-effective than finding problems after production has started.

3. Gather Feedback from Users and Stakeholders

A working prototype allows you to gather valuable feedback from end users, investors, and internal stakeholders.

It’s a powerful tool for validating your idea – and making refinements before you fully commit.

Having a tangible prototype also builds credibility with investors and board members, showing that you’ve taken the product beyond just an idea.

How to Make a Prototype

There are two main routes:

✔ DIY Prototypes

If you’re handy and want to visualise your idea quickly, a simple model made from cardboard, foam, or other basic materials can give you a rough sense of the product. It’s a good starting point for very early-stage ideas.

✔ Professional 3D Prototypes

For meaningful testing and accurate validation, you’ll need a professionally made prototype. That’s where we come in.

We’ve been 3D printing since 2020 and it’s played a vital role in all of our product development projects since. Our printers produce detailed, functional prototypes that help our clients move confidently toward production.

Ready to Bring Your Idea to Life?

If you’re developing a new product and want to avoid costly mistakes, prototyping is the smart choice. Whether you need a simple model or a fully functional prototype, we’re here to help.

👉 Get in touch today to discuss your project or ask us any questions about 3D printing and product prototyping. We’d love to help turn your concept into reality.

Let’s make your next prototype

Cornelius Creative MD takes part in Kent Ride and Stride 2020

Written by 33A5f3aF on September 14, 2020. Posted in Our team.

Our MD Simon Cornelius took part in the 2020 Ride and Stride event on Saturday 12th September. Organised by the Friends of Kent Churches charity, the annual event is part of a wider national event in which people all over England walk or cycle between churches, and explore towns, cities and the countryside.

It’s a sponsored event which helps to ensure historic places of worship are saved for future generations. The funds raised by walkers and cyclists are used for urgent repairs and to install modern facilities such as heating and new toilets. Each year the event raises over £1 million nationally

Simon, a keen cyclist, rode approximately 45 miles and managed to visit 13 churches, including Rochester cathedral.

If you’d like to learn more, and possibly take part in 2021, please visit the Kent Ride & Stride website.

8 Reasons Hiring an Agency Could Be the Best Decision for Your Next Project

Written by 33A5f3aF on August 25, 2020. Posted in Business.

Whether you’re a small business owner, an entrepreneur, or part of an R&D or marketing team in a larger organisation, you’ll likely reach a point where bringing in external support becomes essential.

We get it – outsourcing isn’t always an easy decision. You might be thinking:

Agencies are too expensive.
What if they take over and steer the project in the wrong direction?
I had a bad experience with ‘XYZ Agency’ once – never again.

You’re not alone. Many companies have worked with the wrong agency at some point, leaving them hesitant to try again.

But here’s the good news: the right agency doesn’t just fill a gap – they become a natural extension of your team. They bring added capacity, new expertise, and even help reduce project costs in the long run.

Still on the fence? Here are 8 clear benefits of working with the right product design agency or consultancy:

1. Extra Resource When Your Team Is Stretched

This is one of the most obvious and immediate benefits. Internal teams are often juggling multiple projects, meetings, and day-to-day distractions. Bringing in an agency provides focused resource that can dedicate time and energy to your priority project -helping you meet deadlines faster and more effectively.

2. Unbiased Perspective Beyond Company Culture

In-house teams can become limited by routine ways of thinking or the influence of past projects. An external consultant isn’t bound by your company’s culture or history. They bring a fresh, objective outlook – often leading to bolder, more innovative solutions.

3. Fresh Ideas and Creative Thinking

A great agency doesn’t just follow a brief – they challenge it. With varied experience across industries and clients, they bring new ideas to the table that might not occur to your internal team. These insights can significantly enhance your product or marketing outcomes.

4. Structured, Proven Processes

Experienced agencies work to well-defined processes, with clear stages, milestones and timelines. This structure not only helps keep your project on track but often leads to faster delivery and better results. (Take a look at our product design process for more on how we do it.)

5. Access to Tools, Tech and Facilities

A well-equipped product design agency will already have the tools, software, and equipment needed to do the job – whether it’s CAD software, 3D printers, or prototyping tools. That saves you time and investment, especially if your team doesn’t have in-house access to specialised equipment.

6. Valuable Industry Connections

Agencies work with a wide range of clients and suppliers, which means they’ve built an impressive network. These contacts can be hugely beneficial – helping you reduce material and production costs, improve PR outreach, or speed up your route to market.

7. End-to-End Support Under One Roof

A full-service agency (like us!) can support your entire product lifecycle – from concept and design through to marketing and launch. Keeping everything under one roof ensures consistency, improves communication, and often proves more cost-effective than working with multiple suppliers.

8. Lower Overall Project Costs

Yes, hiring an agency is an investment. But it’s one that can actually save you money. Faster timelines, access to better resources, and expert guidance often mean fewer mistakes, greater efficiency, and reduced long-term costs.

What’s Your Experience?

Have you worked with product design agencies before? Were your experiences mostly positive or negative? We’d love to hear your thoughts – feel free to share your story in the comments or drop us a message.

Need Support on an Upcoming Project?

If you’re considering external support for your next product or marketing challenge, we’d love to help. At Cornelius Creative, we offer end-to-end services tailored to your needs – from product design and development to market launch and beyond. Get in touch today to see how we can become a valuable extension of your team.

Book a discovery call

Helping reduce the spread of Coronavirus – the ‘Poop Bin Thing’

Written by 33A5f3aF on July 29, 2020. Posted in 3D Printing, Design, Innovation.

A Sevenoaks business owner is helping to reduce the spread of Coronavirus amongst dog owners. Product design consultant Simon Cornelius, 38, has created a device to help dog owners avoid touching dog waste bin handles. The handheld device, which he has designed and produced using a 3D printer, ensures that dog owners can have touch-free access to waste bins. It features a hook and loop to enable users to easily open and close bins and has a sliding mechanism to cover the contaminated end when not in use.

The tool is made from PETG (Polyethylene terephthalate glycol) a recyclable material commonly used for 3D printing and available in a variety of colours.

Simon Cornelius said: “As a dog owner, I used my daily exercise during lockdown to walk my two dogs in my local neighbourhood. I noticed that other owners were coming up with ways to avoid touching the waste bin handles, such as tying bags to the handle and using sticks for leverage. My device uses a sliding cover to ensure the hook is never touched to help to reduce the spread of Coronavirus and other germs”.

The Poop Bin Thing is currently available to buy on ebay.

Cornelius Creative is awarded a creative start-up grant

Written by 33A5f3aF on May 1, 2020. Posted in Business.

We’re excited to announce we’ve been awarded a grant as part of a creative business and development programme delivered in partnership by Kent County Council and South East Creatives (SECCADS).

After launching Cornelius Creative in March 2020, one week before the national lockdown was imposed, we applied for the creative grant from SECCADS to help contribute towards vital office equipment, including a laptop and a 3D printer for creating client prototypes.

The grant is part of a wider programme to support creative, cultural or digital SMEs, which also offers workshops and mentorships as well as grant funding of £1,000 – £20,000 (up to 35% of total project costs). It is available to freelancers, sole traders, start-up and growing businesses working in Essex, East Sussex or Kent.

Our MD, Simon Cornelius said “I decided to go self-employed at the beginning of 2020 and came across the SECCADS programme while researching information about starting my business. I applied for the grant as I provide a creative service to businesses, including computer aided design, product design and marketing. Starting a business at any time is fairly daunting, but this year the Coronavirus pandemic has added another struggle into the mix, so the grant has been essential in helping my business survive.”

The SECCADS programme is available until December 2020 and more information is available at www.southeastcreatives.co.uk.