Our Story
We’re proud of our history and how it shapes us.
DW Product Development was founded in 1981 in Ottawa, Ontario, by Mike Sirois and John Tutton – fresh out of Carleton University’s Industrial Design program. They had connected with a company searching for help from design consultants to create furniture for one of the first 3D CAD workstations, and the rest is history. As they received acclamation from satisfied clients, the referrals came in and the company grew, and over time carefully crafted a cohesive team with a diverse skillset.
Their first large piece of shop equipment – a 500-lb mill – had to be disassembled to squeeze into John’s basement. Naturally, they moved out of there fairly quickly, and in their own space assembled a workshop to help elevate their work. Having all the tools and equipment on hand shaped the way they approached design: rather than working only behind a desk and hoping the stars aligned, they designed, built, tested and iterated until they were satisfied with the outcome.
Starting out drafting by hand, their work also benefited from their first computer – a Kaypro – in 1984. Since then, DW has prioritized using the latest technology and programs to expand their capabilities and efficiency. In 2004 they purchased their first of many 3D printers, which has proven to be an essential tool for visualizing and developing designs.
From the beginning, DW understood the value of collaboration in design. Often the clients have experience in the field of their intended product, and leveraging that knowledge contributes to how well a product fits in its niche. DW also maintains strong communication channels with other product development contributors, such as with a number of manufacturers. Designing for a manufacturer’s capabilities and requests leads to cost-effective manufacturing solutions and a better-built product.
Starting out drafting by hand, their work also benefited from their first computer – a Kaypro – in 1984. Since then, DW has prioritized using the latest technology and programs to expand their capabilities and efficiency. In 2004 they purchased their first of many 3D printers, which has proven to be an essential tool for visualizing and developing designs.
From the beginning, DW understood the value of collaboration in design. Often the clients have experience in the field of their intended product, and leveraging that knowledge contributes to how well a product fits in its niche. DW also maintains strong communication channels with other product development contributors, such as with a number of manufacturers. Designing for a manufacturer’s capabilities and requests leads to cost-effective manufacturing solutions and a better-built product.
The past 40 years have been full of successful innovation and design, seeing many products perform exceedingly well on the market. DW has grown to be recognised on the global stage with many international clients and awards – while still maintaining their strong local roots. Having designed hundreds of products of every kind and using a design process formed through decades of refinement, DW has the right combination of experience and success to continue delivering products of the highest quality.
Our Clients
Our Clients