Topic 1 of 6 · Form 5
Design methodology and human factors
Linear (systematic) and iterative design; user-centred design; inclusive design; biomimicry; design thinking (empathise, define, ideate, prototype, test).
Notes for this topic 1 file, in order
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Design approaches
Linear (systematic) and iterative design; user-centred design; inclusive design; biomimicry; design thinking (empathise, define, ideate, prototype, test).
Human factors
- Anthropometrics: body measurement data. Designers commonly cater for the 5th to 95th percentile of users – e.g. door heights suit the tall (95th percentile), reach distances suit the short (5th percentile).
- Ergonomics: designing for comfort, safety, efficiency and ease of use (handle grips, seating, control layouts).
- Psychological factors: colour, feedback, perceived safety.
Specifications
Measurable criteria: function, performance, size, mass, materials, cost, safety, aesthetics, environment, maintenance and target market.
Evaluation
Testing against the specification, user trials, expert opinion and comparison with existing products. Iterative improvement.
Designers and movements
Studying influential designers and styles (Arts and Crafts, Bauhaus "form follows function", modernism, postmodernism) and African design traditions (basketry, Ndebele geometric patterns, stone sculpture).
Check yourself
- Which percentile is used to set the height of a doorway, and why?
- Define ergonomics.
- What did the Bauhaus mean by "form follows function"?
Show answers
- The 95th percentile, so that almost all users (the tallest) can pass through.
- The study of designing products to fit people's capabilities, comfort and safety.
- A product's shape should arise from its purpose rather than from decoration.
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