Understanding the Context

• The first step in design is to carefully consider the context in which your design solution will function. This is about the conditions or circumstances that surround a particular situation.

• Discovering this context requires you to take into account variables such as the environment, the culture, and the users' lifestyles.

• Analyse any factors that might affect your design and its usage. This could be anything, ranging from the materials available to the costs of production.

Exploring the Target User

• A key part of the context is the target user group. You must understand their needs, preferences, skills, age, abilities, likes, dislikes, and habits.

• A user persona can help you focus your design on the needs of a specific user group.

• Thorough research will aid you in empathising with the real-life experiences and challenges these user groups face, leading to a more effective design solution.

Studying the Environment

• The environment in which your design solution will be used is a crucial factor to delve into – this can include the physical (geographical or location-based), social, and economic environment.

• For instance, if you're designing an outdoor product, you need to account for factors such as weather conditions, durability, or if there are any environmental impact concerns associated with the use or manufacture of your product.

• Similarly, elements like culture, popular trends or societal norms of the place where your solution will be marketed should also be considered.

Considering Economic Factors

• It's useful to see how the economic landscape would influence your design solution. This can involve exploring market trends and the economic stability of regions where your product will be sold.

• The cost to produce, market, distribute, and maintain your design solution can determine its overall viability and profitability.

• Analyse the possible return on investment of your design solution. This indicates whether it will be profitable in the long run or not.

The Role of Technology

• Identify the importance of technology in both the manufacture and usage of your design solution.

• Think about how the latest technological advancements may influence your design. For instance, can new manufacturing techniques make your product easier or cheaper to produce?

• Consider how technological trends among your target user group could influence their interaction with or expectations from your design solution.