During what stage of the new product development process do companies usually apply for patents?
A.
commercialization
B.
market testing
C.
business analysis
D.
prototype development
D. prototype development
The correct answer is D. prototype development.
During the prototype development stage of the new product development process, companies usually apply for patents. This stage involves creating a working prototype of the product to test and evaluate its functionality and feasibility. Applying for patents during this stage helps protect the company's innovative ideas and intellectual property rights before moving forward with commercialization and market testing.