Initial Muse Phase: Prototyping, Manufacturing, Programming, & Keyword Tool Questions

[Grey]

Hello, fellow 4 Hour Workers!

I am in the muse creation process. Within my niche, headphones/headsets are a big deal as shown by my research in magazine and website advertisements. My unique value propositions will be that my products look better, last longer, and are more comfortable. I do not plan on reinventing the wheel. I want a functional pair of headphones that I can market and put graphics on.

I have a few questions before I get started so I can fully understand the initial costs. In physical product creation process, does it go like this: idea creation, engineer creates drafts/CAD drawings, prototyping, manufacturing Do I need to create a prototype if I am merely redesigning how the headphones look? For example, I will change the ear pads, head band, and outside/back of the speakers (the round part that people see). Basically, what is the proper method for the creation of my product?

The primary purpose of the headphones/headsets will be for PC/Mac use. If it is a plug and play device, will I have to pay a programmer to create any form of software or a driver? Would using 3.5mm jacks be an easier route?

On a PPC note, when researching muses and using the Google Keyword tool to check keyword traffic, I wanted to know if people were using the volume from Broad or Exact. The monthly search volume is significantly different between Broad and Exact so I want to fully understand what I would be getting myself into with a 1% CTR and 0.5-1.5% conversion rate.

I apologize for even having to use anybody's time, but I could use the expertise. I wanted to see if this is a viable option for me right now before I start microtesting. Thank you all ahead of time for your help.

[TBV]

You always want to use EXACT.

If you are not creating a unique product, take an existing product and make your changes to it for your prototype. I would not try to sell any headphone product that required special software or drivers. Use the 3.5mm jacks as that is standard for the MAC and PCs, your target user.