It is very likely that product designers and engineers rely on input from consumers as they work on new ideas, products, and executions.  Before new products are developed or existing ones modified it is appropriate to learn how they will be received.  In some cases developers will have received information from strategic planning that indicates such things as . . .

• Evaluation of current and competitive products
• The need for specific styling and product features
• Profile of the eventual user

During the design process developers and engineers can avail themselves of research services to assure themselves they are on the right track, and meeting the needs of the market.  Some of the research tools they can use are:

Focus Group Discussions (qualitative research) as a sounding board to get initial reaction to ideas. Ideas can be presented in the form of models, sketches, photographs, or simply in written materials.

Quantitative Exploration of target market reactions. 

• Product clinics:  Large numbers of consumers would be recruited to evaluate models, sketches, photographs, etc. The proposed products as well as competitive products are put on display for consumers examine and evaluate in great detail. 
• In-home evaluations:  Products are placed in homes for evaluation
• Evaluation in central location facilities:  Products are used under life-like circumstances in a laboratory setting.

D. Frank Research has conducted extensive evaluations in the following areas . ..

• Automotive, including passenger vehicles and trucks
• Home electronics
• Kitchen appliances
• Computers and computer hardware
• Computer software
• Home and office furniture