ZIMSEC O Level · Design and Technology · Form 1, Form 2, Form 3, Form 4
Design and Technology is about solving real problems by designing and making products.
Stages
- Identify a need or problem (e.g. carrying water efficiently, keeping vegetables fresh at a market stall).
- Write a design brief: a short statement of what is to be designed.
- Research: users' needs, existing products, materials, costs, and anthropometrics (body measurements) and ergonomics (comfort and ease of use).
- Write a specification: measurable requirements (size, weight, cost, materials, safety, appearance).
- Generate ideas: sketches, notes, models.
- Develop the chosen idea: details, materials, joints, sizes.
- Plan the making: working drawings, cutting lists, sequence of operations, time and tools.
- Make the product safely and accurately.
- Test and evaluate against the specification; suggest improvements.
Factors in good design
Function, safety, ergonomics, aesthetics (appearance), cost, materials available locally, durability, maintenance and environmental impact.
Exam tip: Your evaluation should refer back to each point of your specification.
Check yourself
- What is the difference between a design brief and a specification?
- Define ergonomics.
- Name four factors in good design.
Show answers
- A brief states the problem to be solved; a specification lists measurable requirements the solution must meet.
- Designing products so they are comfortable, safe and easy for people to use.
- Any four: function, safety, ergonomics, aesthetics, cost, durability, materials, environment.
Questions about this topic (0)
No questions about this topic yet.
Sign in or create a free account to join in.