Design desicions

• What must designers evaluate when developing new technologies?

  Designers must evaluate aesthetic appeal, safety, and manufacturability.
• Why are wider issues like ethics and the environment important in design?

  They are important due to their value to the customer.
• What are the key ethical considerations in product design?

  • Sourcing of materials
  • Testing on animals
  • Treatment of workers
  • Packaging labels and information
• What is fair trade?

  Fair trade is a trading partnership ensuring suitable working conditions and fair wages for workers in developing countries.
• Why has fair trade become more popular over time?

  It represents a growing belief that workers should be treated well.
• What is one way products can be designed to minimize environmental impact?

  By using renewable materials.
• What are some strategies for environmental design?

  • Use renewable materials (e.g., paper straws)
  • Efficient transportation to reduce emissions
  • Minimize use of finite resources
• What does "design for maintenance" mean?

  It refers to designing products that are durable and have spare parts available for repair.
• What types of products are suitable for design for maintenance?

  Low-tech or modular products that are easy to repair.
• What is "design for disassembly"?

  It is a concept where products can be taken apart for reuse or recycling at the end of their life.
• Give an example of design for disassembly.

  A stool that can be unscrewed to recycle its parts.
• What is planned obsolescence?

  It is the practice of designing products with a limited lifecycle that will soon become obsolete.
• Why is planned obsolescence generally considered bad for the environment?

  It creates more waste due to frequent product replacements.
• What is perceived obsolescence?

  It is when customers believe they need an updated product even though their current one works well.
• How do manufacturers create perceived obsolescence?

  By convincing customers that older products are out of date based on style.
• What is product enhancement?

  It is any change that improves a product's performance beyond its original capabilities.
• In which areas is product enhancement commonly seen?

  In computers, cars, and spectacles.
• What are the implications of product enhancement for consumers and designers?

  • Maintains product life
  • Allows for customization and upgrades
  • Increases consumer choice
  • Raises investment costs for designers