2.1 Design Methods and Processes

Question 1

Iterative design process

Answer 1

Using a cyclic sequence of stages required to refine a design

Research -> ideate -> prototype -> test _^

Question 2

User-centred design

Answer 2

• Aims to improve users’ experience of using products
• There is an international usability standard, ISO 13407:
  • Take full account of users, the task performed and the relevant
  environment
  • Involves users during design and development
  • Refined by user-centred evaluation
  • Considers the whole user experience

Question 3

Methods used to achieve UCD standards

Answer 3

• Apply ergonomic principles for ease of use and comfort
• Use anthropometric data to ensure a good fit
• Observe people using products
• Organise focus groups to solve problems with existing products
• Gain an understanding of how users interact with products
• Improve the user experience

Question 4

Designing to meet needs, wants or values

Answer 4

Consider the:
Physical needs - needs of children are very different to the elderly
Emotional needs - understanding what people like, matching their aspirations
Intellectual needs - for example, small children are attracted to bright colours

Question 5

Primary investigate techniques

Answer 5

• Market research questionnaires and surveys
• Interviewing potential users to investigate their wants or needs
• Focus groups
• Human factors:
  • Empathic research
  • the designer experiences users’ limitations, e.g. Lack of mobility
• Anthropometric data is obtained
• Ergonomics can be improved by getting customers to use the product
• Product analysis:
  • disassembly of existing products
  • practical testing of components

Question 6

Secondary investigative techniques

Answer 6

Using external resources such as research journals, online and books

Could consider:
• Style influences of designers and movements
• Identifications of suitable materials, components, and manufacturing
methods
• Relevant anthropometric data

Question 7

Planning, manufacture and evaluation of a prototype

Answer 7

• Creating a step-by-step, detailed plan of prototype manufacture considering:
  • Tools
  • QA
  • QC
• Carry out hand, machine or rapid prototyping methods as required
• Test and evaluate prototype with involvement of consumers
• Carry out iterative improvements to optimise the design