Design Process Overview

What is Design?

Design is a process that is used to systematically solve problems.

What is a Design Process?

A design process is a systematic problem-solving strategy, with criteria and constraints, used to develop many possible solutions to solve or satisfy human needs or wants and to narrow down the possible solutions to one final choice.

– ITEA Standards for Technological Literacy

1. Identify problems and opportunities

2. Frame a design brief

3. Investigate and research

4. Generate alternative solutions

5. Choose a solution

6. Developmental work

7. Model and prototype

8. Test and evaluate

9. Redesign and improve

– Design and Problem Solving in Technology

Example Design Process

1. Identify the need

2. Define the criteria

3. Explore/research/investigate

4. Generate alternate solutions

5. Choose a solution

6. Develop the solution

7. Model/prototype

8. Test and evaluate

9. Redesign and improve

– Engineering Drawing and Design (3rd edition)

Example Design Process

The Adopted Design Process

1. Define a problem2. Brainstorm3. Research and generate

ideas4. Identify criteria and specify

constraints5. Explore possibilities6. Select an approach7. Develop a design proposal8. Make a model or prototype9. Test and evaluate the design

using specifications10. Refine the design11. Create or make solution12. Communicate processes

and results

– ITEA Standards for Technological Literacy

1. Define a Problem

A litter box constantly needs to be cleaned out, but this is not an environmentally-friendly process.

2. Brainstorm

• Dissolvable liners• Odor removing pellets• Biodegradable liners• Robotics• Self-cleaning

3. Generate and Research Ideas

• Research solutions

• Generate and Compile the ideas

4. Identify Criteria and Specific Constraints

• Cost

• Limitations

• Time

5. Explore Possibilities

• Biodegradable liners would be safe for the environment and reduce waste in landfills.

• Waste and dissolvable liners could be placed in compost piles, if necessary.

6. Select an Approach

Biodegradable liners could eliminate solid waste in landfills, could be placed in compost piles, and would be environmentally friendly.

7. Develop a Design Proposal

• Create working drawings

• Generate Design

8. Make a Model or Prototype

Prototype Creation

9. Test and Evaluate the Design Using Specifications

• Prototype Testing

10. Refine the Design

• Modify design

• Rebuild prototype

11. Create Solution

• Determine custom or mass production.• Consider packaging.

12. Communicate Processes and Results

Image Resources

Microsoft, Inc. (2008). Clip Art. Retrieved March 15, 2008, from http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/clipart/default.aspx