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