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CONNECT
A design partner is an early collaborator who works closely with a product team to shape the direction, functionality, and user experience of a new product or feature before it's widely released. This partnership is particularly valuable in B2B software, where the complexity of user needs and workflows benefits from real-world input during the development process. Unlike traditional beta testers, design partners are more deeply engaged and invested in the product’s evolution—they don’t just test what’s built; they help influence what gets built in the first place.
For forward-thinking organizations, becoming a design partner offers a rare and valuable opportunity to gain early access to innovative technology. This means staying ahead of the curve by shaping solutions that directly address their challenges—before those solutions become commercially available. In exchange for their feedback and time, design partners often enjoy influence over product strategy, enhanced support, and, in many cases, favorable pricing or extended trial access.
More importantly, the relationship is mutually beneficial. While the product team gains real-world validation, design partners get a front-row seat in steering how their industry’s software evolves. It’s a chance to solve existing problems more effectively while building a strong relationship with a vendor committed to long-term collaboration and success.
Practical examples can help. At Tidal Point, our own Design Partner Program prioritizes delivery of real value without overwhelming participants. Our intent is to deliver value from the get-go. Partners are onboarded into a working but in-development version of our cyber risk management platform, Risk Assist. In return, we ask for regular feedback through structured sessions, async surveys, or ad-hoc check-ins. Importantly, we keep the process lightweight and respectful of our partner's time. We also provide training and some other related benefits too.
Participation typically spans 2–3 month cycles throughout a year period, during which our team collaborates directly with partners on high-priority use cases. This can include hands-on support, integration exploration, and even the possibility of co-developing features that matter most to them. For example, if a design partner is deeply invested in Slack-based workflows, we’ll focus efforts on tailoring notifications, triage, and approvals directly within Slack.
Successful design partners bring a blend of candid feedback, domain expertise, and curiosity. They don’t need to be technical or power users—what matters is their willingness to engage openly and help the product team see around corners. Partners who are clear about their needs, quick to flag issues, and proactive in suggesting improvements often have the greatest impact. In return, they shape a toolset that fits like a glove and can even influence strategic direction and long-term features.
Design partnerships reflect a modern approach to building enterprise software—one where users and creators collaborate as co-innovators rather than suppliers and customers. For companies like Tidal Point, it’s how we ensure that Risk Assist doesn’t just meet regulatory checklists, but truly aligns with how cybersecurity and risk professionals work in real life.
Whether you’re a fast-growing startup or an established enterprise, engaging as a design partner is a powerful way to future-proof your tech stack and gain influence in your industry. And for software builders, it’s a smart path to delivering tools that are not only functional, but loved. If you're curious about joining the journey with Tidal Point, we’d love to hear from you.