THE PROBLEM SOLVING AND DESIGN
PROCESS

Step-by-step method used by engineers and others to solve both simple and
complex problems.
Have you used anything like this in the past?
Similar to scientific method
THE PROBLEM SOLVING AND DESIGN
PROCESS

Step 1 - Identify Problem

Problem Statement: describe the problem that must be satisfied, you are not
worried about solutions yet (paragraph)
THE PROBLEM SOLVING AND DESIGN
PROCESS

Step 2 - Analyze Problem

List the Design Specifications: the requirements a solution must meet in
order to be successful
THE PROBLEM SOLVING AND DESIGN
PROCESS

Step 3 - Develop Multiple Solutions

Brainstorm ideas

Create multiple drawings to determine best idea

Thumbnail sketches
THE PROBLEM SOLVING AND DESIGN
PROCESS

Step 4 - Select / Refine Solution

Determine the design which best fits design specifications, may require
combining designs

Create drawings of chosen ideas
THE PROBLEM SOLVING AND DESIGN
PROCESS

Step 5 - Implement Solution

Build possible solution

Take notes of build process to determine what changes should be made next
time
THE PROBLEM SOLVING AND DESIGN
PROCESS

Step 6 - Evaluate Solution

Evaluate prototype

Does it solve the problem? Why or why not?

Document any improvements that could be made to test prototype

If design fails to satisfy problem, repeat process with multiple new solutions