2.1 Design Methods and Processes

Question 1

iterative design (definition)

Answer 1

• process of designing & redesigning a product after evaluating it against the specification, client feedback etc, aiming towards a process of constant improvement

Question 2

iterative design process (stages- 4)

Answer 2

• design
• test (prototype)
• refine
• evaluate
• (begin again)

Question 3

advantages of iterative design (8)

Answer 3

• functional prototypes developed early in design process and at each stage of iteration
• customer feedback based on working prototype rather than technical spec
• potential defects spotted & dealt with early
• progress easily measured
• successive iteration can be managed easily as milestones
• changes easier to implement & less costly
• most risks can be identified early & higher risks dealt with as priority
• operating time reduced

Question 4

disadvantages of iterative design (5)

Answer 4

• more resources may be required
• each successive phase is rigid with no overlaps
• need for more intensive project management
• may be difficult to predict an end date
• highly skilled workers needed

Question 5

user centred design (definition)

Answer 5

• ease of use is emphasised, with a specific person/group kept in mind

Question 6

how user centred design differs from human centred design

Answer 6

• human centred design is more generalised

- focuses on humans and general anthropometrics rather than a specific user

Question 7

what designers consider when creating a ‘persona’ for a user centred design project (4)

Answer 7

• identify the user
• understand the context of the products use- how it will be used and why the user has a problem
• define the project goals (what are the user requirements?)
• identify potential benefits to user

Question 8

primary research methods

Answer 8

• immersion (designer puts themselves in position of user- eg pregnancy suit)
• focus group
• product analysis/disassembly
• questionnaires
• interviews
• practical testing
• human factors (eg ergonomics) by observing products in use

Question 9

secondary research methods

Answer 9

• anthropometric data
• research materials/components/construction methods
• research historical/contemporary designers & design movements

Question 10

benefits of user centred design to consumer?

Answer 10

• tailored to their needs
• easy for them to use
• product goes through several stages of design & testing ensuring it is high quality

Question 11

development of a design proposal- stages

Answer 11

• sketching & modelling ideas to work out a solution- usually annotated, evaluated by client
• one idea chosen & developed into final design- includes aesthetics, ensures size & proportion correct
• consideration of alternative construction methods & materials- includes testing
• scale & full-scale models may be presented to client for evaluation
• working drawings created
• manufacture planned- step-by-step, includes tools & equipment, cutting list made
• prototype manufacture- tested & evaluated