03 the design process

Design 200: Introduction to Design Department of DesignThe Ohio State University

The Design Process


Methodologies& Processes

Solving Problems Systematically


MethodologiesMethodology

• A body of practices, procedures, and rules used by those who work in a discipline or engage in an inquiry; a set of working methods.

Design Methodology

• Breaking down the design activity into steps.

• A method to the madness.


ProcessesDifferent types of design processes:

• Linear

• Cyclical

• Branching

The type of process used depends on the complexity of the product, and the organization of the design firm or office.


Linear Processes

1 2 3 54


Cyclical Processes

1 2 3 54


Branching Processes

1 2 3 4

2

2 3

3 4 5

4


Design Process


Overview1. Problem Definition & Constraints

2. Research

3. Design Cycle

4. Production

5. Evaluation & Review


1. Problem Definition & Constraints

• What does the client want? What are the client’s needs or goals for the design?

• What is the scope of the project?

• What is the proposed budget, timeline and other constraints?

• Who are the intended users or target audience?


2. Research• User Studies

• Client Studies

• Precedent Studies

• Market Analysis

• Benchmarking

• Code and Legal Searching


3. Design Cyclea. Concept Development

b. Design Refinement

c. Feedback

d. Finalizationa b dc


3a. Concept Development

• Informed by Research phase.

• Sketching, visual brainstorming.

• Appearance, visual language.

• What are the possibilities for the design? How can client and users needs best be addressed?

• Ideation and Exploration


3a. Concept Development


3b. Concept Refinement

• Turn rough ideas into presentable concepts.

• Refinement, aesthetics, meaning.

• Detailing, proportions, functionality.

• Anthropometrics, ergonomics.

• Manufacturing processes, materials.

• Mock-ups, Models, Rendered Drawings.


3b. Concept Refinement


3c. Feedback• Client Presentations

• User Testing

• Usability Analyses


3d. Finalization• Creation of specific documentations of the design.

• Hard numbers and concrete decisions are made.

• VC: Final Comps

• IS: Contract Documents

• ID: Mechanical Drawings


4. Production• Often this includes working with manufacturers,

contractors, printers, and/or programmers to oversee the proper implementation and execution of the intended design.


5. Evaluation• Evaluate the success of the design.

• Did it meet goals and expectations?

• Did it solve the identified problem or opportunity?

• Did it create new problems?

•You’re only as good as your last job.