Ohio's product design companies contribute significantly to innovation through design, engineering, and user experience research. These firms engage in diverse sectors such as healthcare, consumer goods, and technology, providing services like prototyping, packaging, and brand development. The industry is increasingly incorporating sustainability and user-centered practices to meet evolving consumer demands. Emphasizing creative problem-solving and collaboration, Ohio's design ecosystem fosters a vibrant environment where businesses can transform ideas into viable market offerings.

This listing features 19 firms based in Ohio, with headquarters in cities like Columbus and Cincinnati. Ranging from small teams of under 10 to larger firms with over 500 employees, these companies were founded between the late 1950s and 2021. They focus on specializations such as product design, branding, user experience, and innovative packaging solutions, reflecting the state's entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability.

Continue reading to discover Ohio's top product design companies.

Top 19 Product Design Companies in Ohio

1. Priority Designs

• Website: prioritydesigns.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: priority-designs

Priority Designs, based in Columbus, Ohio, is a product development firm founded in 1991. With a team of around 84 employees, the company specializes in transforming innovative ideas into market-ready products. Their services cover a wide range of areas, including research, design, engineering, and branding. They pride themselves on an integrated approach that fosters collaboration throughout the product development process. This enables them to support clients effectively, whether from the initial concept stage or at any point in the development cycle. Priority Designs has worked with various industries, including home goods and wellness, demonstrating their capability to adapt to different market needs. Their commitment to understanding client goals and delivering tailored solutions has helped them build a solid reputation in the product design sector.

2. Design Central

• Website: designcentral.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, India 6%, Nigeria 6%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: design-central

Design Central Inc. is a product design consultancy and engineering firm based in Columbus, Ohio, founded in 1985. With a team size of 11-50 employees, the company specializes in product design, user experience, and prototyping services. They cater to a variety of sectors, including healthcare and consumer products, providing innovative solutions that enhance usability and manufacturability. Design Central operates through a collaborative model, integrating research and engineering to deliver effective design outcomes. Their work includes significant projects such as the Swiffer Duster for Procter & Gamble and the X-Series orthopedic surgical multi-tool for Zimmer Biomet. The firm is known for its hands-on approach to prototyping, which allows for thorough testing and validation of design concepts. This commitment to quality and user-centric design has established Design Central as a relevant player in the product design industry.

3. Kaleidoscope Innovation

• Website: kascope.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope Innovation, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a product development firm founded in 1989. With a workforce of approximately 352 employees, the company specializes in engineering, design, and regulatory affairs. They cater to clients in the medical device, consumer product, and industrial equipment sectors, providing a comprehensive suite of services that guide clients through the complexities of product development and market entry. Kaleidoscope has worked with prominent companies such as Procter & Gamble and Baxter International, showcasing their ability to deliver innovative solutions that meet stringent industry standards. Their expertise extends to human factors engineering, advanced prototyping, and software development, allowing them to create products that not only meet functional requirements but also enhance user experience. The firm’s commitment to quality and efficiency is evident in their collaborative approach, which integrates various disciplines to ensure successful project outcomes.

4. Council

• Website: council.inc
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: the-brigade-inc

Council is a Cleveland-based digital product agency founded in 2011. With a team of 19 employees, the company specializes in experience innovation consultancy, aiming to enhance products and services through collaborative design processes. Council prioritizes research-driven design, which informs their approach to creating solutions that not only meet client needs but also contribute to cultural expansion and community growth. Their work reflects a commitment to building relationships over merely completing projects, highlighting the importance of human connection in the design process. Council's focus on creativity, inspired by people and guided by research, positions them as a relevant player in the product design industry.

5. Mertz Design Studio

• Website: mertzdesignstudio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: mertz-design-inc

Mertz Design Studio, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a design studio that specializes in branding, product design, and animation services. Founded in 2002, the studio has built a reputation for providing comprehensive design solutions tailored to the needs of small businesses and startups. With a team of industrial designers, graphic designers, and animators, Mertz Design Studio approaches projects with a collaborative mindset, ensuring that each design is not only functional but also resonates with the target audience. Their unique program, LaunchPad, pairs expert designers with student co-ops, allowing for mentorship and the delivery of high-quality design at lower costs. The studio has worked across various industries, including healthcare, consumer packaged goods, retail, and technology, showcasing their adaptability and expertise in product design. Mertz Design Studio emphasizes a philosophy of 'Think. Make. Move.' which guides their process from initial concept to final execution, ensuring that they meet and often exceed client expectations.

6. Lextant

• Website: lextant.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: lextant

Lextant, founded in 1998 and based in Columbus, Ohio, is a consulting firm that specializes in user experience research and design. With a team of 35 employees, Lextant focuses on helping businesses across various sectors, including automotive, healthcare, consumer goods, retail, and financial services. Their approach is centered on understanding user needs and translating those insights into actionable design strategies. Lextant employs a range of innovative research methodologies, such as ethnography and journey mapping, to capture the emotional impact of product experiences. They have collaborated with over 500 clients, and their insights have been integral to the development of numerous successful products, particularly in the automotive industry. Their commitment to enhancing user experiences is evident in their work, which has led to award-winning innovations and significant contributions to product design.

7. Rowe

• Website: rowecu.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: rowe-creative-union

Rowe Creative Union, founded in 2018 and based in Columbus, Ohio, is a private design consultancy that specializes in innovative design solutions for businesses across various sectors. With a team of around 20 professionals, Rowe offers a range of services including brand strategy, graphic design, and experience design. Their approach is characterized by an anti-agency philosophy, allowing them to assemble tailored teams for each project. This flexibility enables them to deliver high-quality design outputs that align with their clients' unique objectives. Rowe has worked with a variety of clients, including notable names in retail, consumer goods, and technology, showcasing their ability to adapt and innovate in different contexts. Their focus on creating strong brand relationships through design positions them as a relevant player in the product design industry.

8. Cog, LLC

• Website: cogdriven.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: cog-llc

Cog, LLC, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a packaging design agency founded in 2010. The company specializes in packaging development and prototyping services, aiming to enhance consumer engagement through innovative packaging solutions. Their offerings include design consultation, digital printing, and structural engineering, which are tailored to streamline the packaging process for their clients. Cog collaborates with various stakeholders, including research and development departments, design teams, and printing companies, to drive innovation and efficiency in packaging design. They emphasize sustainability in their practices, utilizing eco-friendly materials and processes. Cog's commitment to client collaboration and their proactive approach to identifying and applying breakthrough packaging technologies further solidify their position in the product design industry.

9. Fisher Design, Inc

• Website: fisherdesign.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: fisherdesign

Fisher Design, Inc., based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a private branding agency that has been operational since 1958. The company specializes in lifestyle brands and consumer packaged goods, offering a range of services that include brand strategy, design, and packaging. Fisher Design has built a reputation for helping businesses enhance their market presence and connect effectively with consumers. Their clientele spans both established brands and startups, indicating their versatility and adaptability in the market. The agency has worked with notable names such as Jack Daniels, Winchester Ammunition, and Under Armour, demonstrating their capability in brand positioning and product design. Fisher Design emphasizes innovation and strategic planning, aiming to create impactful designs that resonate with target audiences. They also provide workflow management solutions to streamline project delivery, further showcasing their commitment to efficiency in the design process.

10. Dot Dash

• Website: dotdash.io
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, Canada 10%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dot-dash-cincinnati

Dot Dash is a design and development studio based in Cincinnati, Ohio, founded in 2008. With a team of 20 employees, they focus on creating web and mobile applications tailored to the needs of businesses and organizations. Dot Dash offers a comprehensive suite of services, including discovery, design, development, and brand strategy. Their discovery phase involves workshops that help clarify client goals and understand target audiences, which is essential for effective product design. The design process prioritizes creating aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly experiences, while their development team employs a custom software approach to ensure robust and secure applications. Dot Dash aims to foster a collaborative environment, ensuring clear communication and a comfortable experience for clients throughout the project lifecycle. They cater to a variety of clients, including public corporations, startups, and non-profits, demonstrating their adaptability and commitment to empowering client visions through technology.

11. PIVOTstudio

• Website: pivotstudiocreative.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2021
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: pivot-studiocreative

PIVOTstudio is a Cincinnati-based design agency that specializes in crafting branded experiences and providing strategic consulting services. Founded in 2021, the company is driven by a passionate team of designers, architects, and strategists who are dedicated to transforming bold ideas into reality. With a collective leadership experience exceeding a century, PIVOTstudio emphasizes the importance of design in enhancing brand identity and guest experiences. They work closely with businesses to deliver innovative design solutions that not only meet client needs but also aim to provide a competitive edge in the market. Their portfolio showcases a range of projects that reflect their commitment to excellence and creativity in design.

12. Clarity Retail Services

• Website: clarity-retail.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: West Chester Township, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: clarity-retail

Clarity Retail Services, founded in 2015 and based in West Chester Township, Ohio, operates as a design and production agency. The company focuses on crafting fixtures, displays, and graphics tailored for clients in the retail, hospitality, and restaurant industries. With a commitment to understanding client needs, Clarity collaborates closely with businesses to create solutions that enhance customer engagement and storytelling. Their capabilities include the design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation of displays made from wood, metal, and plastic. Clarity has built a reputation for reliability and creativity, supporting various world-class companies in achieving their retail goals. The firm has been recognized on the Inc 5000 list for several consecutive years, highlighting its growth and impact in the industry.

13. Roto

• Website: roto.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, India 2%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: roto-group-llc

Roto is a design-build firm based in Columbus, Ohio, established in 2004. The company specializes in creating immersive experiences tailored for museums, science centers, children's museums, zoos, aquariums, and brand experiences. Roto's services include master planning, exhibit design, immersive media, and custom fabrication. They focus on engaging audiences through innovative storytelling and interactive environments, which are crucial for educational and cultural institutions. Roto has worked on notable projects such as the Hall of Fame Headquarters and the National Museum of Psychology, showcasing their expertise in experience design. With a team of around 163 employees, Roto operates primarily in the United States, with a small presence in India. They have not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model.

14. Openfield

• Website: openfieldx.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: openfieldx

Openfield, founded in 2006 and based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a private UX research and design firm that specializes in the EdTech sector. With a team of 15 employees, Openfield dedicates its efforts to helping educational technology companies enhance user experiences and improve learning outcomes. They offer a range of services, including UX research, design, and rapid prototyping, aimed at addressing user pain points and validating product ideas. Their extensive experience includes over 30,000 hours of user research and collaboration with various EdTech product teams. Openfield's approach is characterized by a commitment to understanding the unique challenges faced by educational technology, making them a valuable partner for companies looking to innovate and improve their products.

15. Bonfire Red

• Website: bonfirered.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bonfire-red

Bonfire Red is a creative agency based in Columbus, Ohio, founded in 2011. With a team of 11-50 employees, the agency focuses on branding, design, and interactive media. They offer a range of services including brand identity development, UX/UI design, and content creation. Bonfire Red collaborates closely with businesses and organizations to enhance their brand presence through tailored design solutions. Their work spans various sectors, and they have developed a reputation for crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. The agency's approach emphasizes creativity and collaboration, drawing inspiration from the unique experiences of their clients. They have worked with notable clients such as the Columbus Crew and DZ Group, demonstrating their capability to handle projects of varying scales and complexities.

16. RGI Creative

• Website: rgicreative.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: North Ridgeville, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: rgi-international

RGI Creative, founded in 2006 and based in North Ridgeville, Ohio, is a creative design and build firm that specializes in exhibits, events, and environments. With a history that combines the expertise of Dimensional Media, Inc. and 5design, RGI Creative has developed a strong reputation for innovation and excellence in the industry. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including research and ideation, environmental and exhibition design, graphic design, and user-interface design. Their fabrication capabilities include prototyping, CNC machining, and installation, ensuring that they can manage projects from concept to completion. RGI Creative has worked with a variety of clients, including Fortune 500 companies and government agencies, showcasing their ability to create impactful experiences that resonate with audiences. Their facilities include a workshop, an interaction lab for technology development, and ample space for collaboration and creativity, all of which contribute to their mission of crafting memorable experiences.

17. Creative Palette, Inc.

• Website: creativepaletteinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Whitehall, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: creativepaletteinc.

Creative Palette, Inc., founded in 1979 and based in Whitehall, Ohio, is an interior design firm that specializes in visual branding solutions tailored for commercial, medical, and retail environments. With a dedicated team of over 100 artists and fabricators, the company prides itself on its ability to create visually captivating spaces that resonate with client identities. Their services include fine art, architectural design, and branding, all aimed at enhancing client experiences and ensuring that each project meets objectives of sustainability, affordability, flexibility, and functionality. Creative Palette's in-house production capabilities allow for meticulous attention to detail and high-quality craftsmanship, making them a trusted partner for businesses looking to elevate their interior environments. Their extensive experience and commitment to client satisfaction have established them as a reliable collaborator in the industry.

18. Olberding Brand Family

• Website: olberdingbrands.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1919
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: olberding-brand-family

Olberding Brand Family, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a branding agency with a rich history dating back to 1919. Originally founded as The Phototype Engraving Company, the firm has evolved significantly over the decades. Today, it specializes in design and visual representation services tailored for consumer packaged goods brands. Their offerings include strategic design, 3D CGI, adaptive design, premedia and comps, as well as print tools and metal deco. This range of services allows them to assist clients in creating compelling brand expressions and ensuring high-quality production. The company has received recognition for its work, including the 2024 PAC Global Best in Class Award, highlighting its commitment to excellence in the industry. With a workforce of over 350 employees, Olberding Brand Family continues to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of the market, making a significant impact in the branding and design sectors.

19. goDutch

• Website: godutchstudio.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: godutch

goDutch is a family-owned creative consultancy based in Cincinnati, Ohio, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in brand and design strategy, offering services that include brand identity development and packaging design. With a team of 21 employees, goDutch collaborates with various businesses and organizations to modernize their branding and create designs that connect with consumers. Their portfolio showcases significant projects with well-known brands such as Froot Loops, Silk, and Hershey's, highlighting their expertise in revitalizing established products. goDutch's focus on culturally relevant design and their ability to simplify complex ideas into impactful visuals positions them as a notable player in the product design industry.

Product Design Insights: Key Companies in Ohio

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