6 ways to get started in product development

Product development is a critical aspect of any business that involves bringing new products to the market. It involves several stages, from ideation to market launch. In Saudi Arabia, product development has become increasingly important due to the growth of the startup ecosystem and the country's Vision 2030 plan.

Saudi Arabia's startup ecosystem has grown at an unprecedented pace in 2022, the Kingdom came in second in the Arab world in total funding value with US$1.2 billion of venture, corporate and equity funding going to Saudi startups.

This highlights the growing interest in entrepreneurship and product development in the country. Developing innovative products can help entrepreneurs gain a competitive edge in the market and achieve their business goals. Here are six ways to get started in the field of product development:

1. Learn the basics: The first step in getting started in product development is to learn the basics. This involves understanding the various stages of product development, such as ideation, market research, prototyping, testing, and launch. There are several resources available online that can help individuals learn the fundamentals of product development, including courses and tutorials.
   
   
2. Network with industry professionals: Networking with industry professionals is another way to get started in product development. Attending industry events, such as conferences and meetups, can provide individuals with the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and learn about the latest trends and innovations in the field. Additionally, joining online communities, such as LinkedIn groups, can help individuals connect with professionals and participate in discussions related to product development.
   
   
3. Gain practical experience: Gaining practical experience is crucial for individuals looking to pursue a career in product development. This can involve working on real-world projects, participating in hackathons or other innovation challenges, or volunteering for a startup. By gaining hands-on experience, individuals can learn about the practical aspects of product development, such as project management, team collaboration, and problem-solving.
   
   
4. Develop a niche expertise: Developing a niche expertise can help individuals stand out in the competitive field of product development. This could involve specializing in a particular industry, such as healthcare or fintech, or developing expertise in a specific area, such as user experience design or data analytics. By becoming an expert in a specific area, individuals can position themselves as thought leaders and increase their chances of success in the field.
   
   
5. Keep up with industry trends: Product development is an ever-evolving field, with new technologies and trends emerging regularly. It is crucial for individuals to keep up with the latest industry trends and innovations to remain competitive. This can involve reading industry publications, attending webinars, or participating in online forums. By staying up-to-date with the latest trends, individuals can identify new opportunities and stay ahead of the competition.
   
   
6. Pursue further education: Pursuing further education, such as a master's degree in product development or a related field, can help individuals gain a deeper understanding of the field and enhance their career prospects. Many universities in Saudi Arabia offer programs in product development, such as the Master's in Product Development program at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. Additionally, there are several online courses and certifications available for individuals looking to enhance their skills in specific areas, such as user experience design or agile development.

Product development is a critical aspect of any business that involves bringing new products to the market. By learning the basics, networking with industry professionals, gaining practical experience, developing a niche expertise, keeping up with industry trends, and pursuing further education, individuals can get started in the field of product development and enhance their career prospects. As the startup ecosystem in Saudi Arabia continues to grow, product development will remain an important area of focus for entrepreneurs and professionals alike.