The financial product design and development course uses market-based or demand-led approaches. The framework to be discussed outlines research methodologies using participatory rapid appraisal techniques to determine the needs of the market; assess institutional readiness for product development; and assess competitive advantage of product prototypes. The course extends the whole process of product design and development that involves assembling the product development team, design process, product costing and pricing, pilot testing, product launch and commercialization. SEDPI market research results will also be presented in the course. The research, which was conducted to several microfinance institutions all over the Philippines, shows how the Philippine microfinance industry has evolved in the last three years. Participants will also be presented with an actual case of a microfinance institution in its journey towards defining its niche and eventually succeeding in the market.