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
Example Design Process
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)
The Adopted Design Process for
PLTW® Courses
1.
2.
3.
Define a problem
Brainstorm
Research and generate
ideas
4. Identify criteria and specify
constraints
5. Explore possibilities
6. Select an approach
7. Develop a design proposal
8. Make a model or prototype
9. Test and evaluate the design
using specifications
10. Refine the design
11. Create or make solution
12. 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
environmentallyfriendly 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
•Limitations
•Cost
•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
•Generate Design
•Create working drawings
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