2.1 Design Methods And Processes

Question 1

State one investigation method that designers may use to help develop their products and to get more of an understanding of what their clients are feeling.

Answer 1

Designers make use of a wide range of investigative techniques when o developing products. One such technique is immersion which involves designers putting themselves into the environment or situation that the customer or user is in. For example, a designer developing products for use by pregnant ladies might wear a ‘pregnancy suit’, simulating the size, weight and restricted movement of someone who is pregnant.
Another example might be using a thick glove to simulate the experience of someone who has arthritis or a loss of dexterity, or frosted glasses to simulate the experience of someone who is visually impaired. This type of immersive investigation enables designers to gain a real understanding of the problems users have with products.

Question 2

Names some other primary investigating techniques

Answer 2

Human factors such as ergonomic issues can be considered by observing potential customers using a product - this can identify whether the consumer has difficulties in using a product and potential improvements can be considered. Watching customers use a product and discussing its usability with them can also identify whether there are any issues in terms of comfort. An example might be observing someone using a computer workstation, and assessing whether they can sit comfortably and use the computer without any strain issues. Anthropometric data (human body measurements) can be taken directly from the client or volunteers in a test group or be obtained from secondary sources.