Understanding the Design Process

• The design process is a structured method for solving problems creatively and innovatively.
• Firstly, it involves identifying and understanding the problem or need.
• Thorough research is then conducted to gather information about the problem or opportunity, user needs, existing solutions and market trends.
• From the research, design specifications are developed, defining clearly what the design solution must achieve.
• Concepts are generated through idea generation (brainstorming); the creation of multiple potential solutions without judgement or evaluating.

Iterative Design

• The design process is iterative, meaning it involves numerous cycles of designing, prototyping, testing, evaluating and refining.
• Sketches, models, or computer aided designs (CAD) are created and used for prototyping.
• Prototypes are tested to evaluate their functionality and effectiveness against the design specifications.
• Feedback is gathered from users, stakeholders, and technical experts and used to inform the refining of the design.
• The process continues until a satisfying solution is found; it might involve going backwards and forwards several times.

Relevance of Design Process in Innovation

• Use the design process to develop innovative solutions or improve existing products, systems or environments.
• This approach promotes creativity and critical thinking skills while focusing on the end user's needs.
• Design specifications and brainstorming help in innovating as they encourage a wide scope of ideas and solutions.
• The iterative nature of the process allows for continuous refinement, maximising the potential of the design to be innovative and effective.

Implementing the Design

• The final stage of the design process involves bringing the design to reality through production or manufacturing.
• The choice of materials, techniques and processes used in this stage should be dictated by the design specifications.
• Further user testing and evaluations are often conducted after implementation to inform potential future iterations.
• Documentation of the design process through design portfolio or reports is crucial for evaluation, marketing, future development, and intellectual property protection.