Design Theory Principles

Design and Market Influences

Design movements: Understanding various design movements such as Art Nouveau, Modernism, Postmodernism can provide inspiration and contextual understanding for your designs.
Market trends: Your design should consider the current market trends. Adaptability is a crucial factor for a successful design in the ever-changing market trends.
Target demographic: The design should cater to the needs, taste and affordability of the intended target audience.
Ergonomics: Ergonomics is all about designing products that fit the user physically and mentally. Consideration for human factors such as size, strength and cognitive ability should be integral to design.

Sketching: Sketching is a quick and easy way of visualising an idea. It helps to refine design concepts before moving into more complex design software.
Technical drawings: These include plans, elevations and sections, and communicate the precise form, size, and manufacturing requirements of a product.
Computer-aided design (CAD): CAD software allows for more precise and detailed designs. It can also be used to create 3D models and prototypes.
Modelling: Physical models and prototypes help to identify design flaws or improvements that may not be evident in two-dimensional drawings or CAD models.

Material selection: Choosing the right material depends on the functionality, aesthetic requirement, cost, sustainability etc. of the product.
New materials and technologies: Stay updated with the latest materials and technologies in design such as smart materials, additive manufacturing etc., and how they might be applied to your work.
Manufacturing processes: Understanding various manufacturing processes like moulding, casting, machining etc. is critical to determine how your design will be made.

User testing: Testing the design with users allows for vital feedback and can highlight any issues or improvements that need to be made.
Functional analysis: Evaluate whether the design meets the required functionality. Remember, form should follow function.
Aesthetics: A successful design balances aesthetics and functionality. Ensure to carry out aesthetic judgement against original design criteria.
Performance: Evaluate how well the design performs the task it was designed for. It should not only fulfill the task but should do so effectively and efficiently.