This paper describes the development of a process for systematically involving designers in research and development work in the context of applied, technology-oriented research and transfer issues. Design is increasingly indispensable in many areas of life and is widely established as a discipline in industrial development processes. Design is also becoming increasingly important for applied research, as it can help to realise the path of technologies into the market. Technology readiness levels (TRL) allow a standardised assessment of the technology and provide information about its maturity and transferability into a market-relevant implementation. Despite this standardised assessment, in practice non-involved persons often judge subjectively – preferably on the basis of external impressions and in comparison with personal experience rather than objective criteria. The study examines this discrepancy, tests design methods in six projects, and discusses findings. A process is proposed that can ensure a balance of technological and design maturity through structured design methodological support.