Product/Service Design

Question 1

Define the DESIGN MIX

Answer 1

The design mix is a combination of three fundamental elements (function, aesthetics, cost) of product and service design. These are considered during the research and development stage of a product’s life.

Question 2

How can the issue of the environment impact the way products are made?

Answer 2

The issue has become much more important to consumers:

• In recent years businesses have become a lot more concerned with the impact their production methods have on the environment.
• Designs have improved waste minimisation as products are increasingly easy to fix and have less packaging.
• Products can now be reused and recycled a lot more as they are made from widely recycled materials and are easy to take apart and repurpose.

Question 3

How can the issue of ethical sourcing impact the way products are made?

Answer 3

The issue has become a lot more important to consumers:

• Businesses have become a lot more concerned with the ethical standards of themselves and their suppliers
• Businesses will now select suppliers with a similar ethical stance to them (how their treat their workforce/how they treat the environment).

Question 4

What are the benefits of responding to social trends?

Answer 4

• Reducing waste can reduce costs and increase profits,
• Behaving ethically may become a competitive advantage –> can allow premium prices to be charged.
• Can help to recruit staff (good reputation for ethics/staff treatment)

Question 5

Define AESTHETICS

Answer 5

Aesthetics is the element of the design mix that considers the look and feel of a product as well as how our senses respond to it.

Question 6

Define FUNCTION

Answer 6

Function is the element of the design mix that considers whether the product is fit for purpose.