Overview

Creating products requires a meticulous evaluation of various complementary and contrasting elements. This module offers a comprehensive exploration of key commercial design factors essential for designers involved in the development and commercialisation of products. Students will have the opportunity to choose and specialise in two specific design factor topics. These may encompass areas such as Sustainability, Service Design, Ergonomics and Human Factors, Quality Control and Analysis, User Experience (UE) and User Interface (UI), Artificial Intelligence, and Storytelling.

By delving into these specific design factors, students will gain a deeper understanding of the critical considerations and nuances involved in the design process, preparing them to navigate the complex landscape of commercial product development with a well-rounded perspective.

Each design factor will be taught through a series of focused lessons. Each focused area will involve critically evaluate current products through case studies and examples. Students will apply the learnings through a focused design challenge.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -50-59%:Knowledge base covers all essential aspects of subject matter dealt with in the assignment; conceptual understanding is acceptable. Experimental work is carried out in a reliable manner, with an appreciation of data analysis shown during validation. Problems of a familiar and unfamiliar nature are solved and solutions are acceptable. Performance in transferable skills is sound. -good -60 -69%:Knowledge base covers all essential aspects of subject matter dealt with in the assignment and shows good evidence of enquiry beyond this. Conceptual understanding is good. Experimental work is carried out in a reliable and efficient manner, with a good appreciation of data analysis shown during validation. Problems of a familiar and unfamiliar nature are solved in a logical manner; solutions are generally correct and acceptable. Performance in transferable skills is sound and shows no significant deficiencies. -excellent -70% and above: Knowledge base is extensive and extends well beyond the work covered in the assignment; conceptual understanding is outstanding. Experimental work is exemplary and shows a thorough analysis and appraisal of experimental results, with appropriate and justified validation. Problems of a familiar and unfamiliar nature are solved with efficiency and accuracy; problem-solving procedures are adjusted to the nature of the problem. Performance in transferable skills is generally very good.

Learning Outcomes

• Discuss factors which relate to the successful development and commercialisation of products, services and/or systems.

• Undertake a critical analysis of a current product, system or services. Recognises and argues for alternative approaches.