Developing a medical device is no easy task and knowing where to start is the first hurdle. Spending time early on working out which is the right path will not only help avoid costly changes later in the programme when the design is set, it can also determine the success of the project. Charlotte Harris at Team Consulting, Cambridge, UK recommends taking time to explore and prioritise the opportunities and requirements as a group, with input from all relevant stakeholders, before deciding on project direction.