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

An approach to design that ensures your product will be easy to use.
Design designers who use this approach usually work to the principles made by the ISO.
Users are involved throughout the design and development process.
And is refined by user centred evaluation.
The design process is iterative

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

When Designing to meet needs, wants or values consider the…

Answer 4

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 includes…

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