Introduction: Designing with Integrity
Design Technology in the IB is about solving real problems through creativity — but true innovation depends on honesty. Every prototype, design log, and reflection must show originality, ethical awareness, and authenticity.
The IB Design Technology Guide (IBO, 2023) states that “academic honesty and responsible design are essential to developing sustainable, human-centered solutions.” This means that your designs must be genuinely your own, your data and models accurately represented, and your creative decisions ethically justified.
This guide explores how IB Design Technology students can uphold integrity in ideation, development, and evaluation — creating solutions that are both innovative and principled.
Quick Start Checklist: Integrity in Design Technology
- Create and document your own original designs.
- Credit all inspiration, references, and data sources.
- Avoid copying or reusing existing designs without citation.
- Use technology and AI transparently.
- Reflect ethically on environmental and social impact.
- Follow IB academic honesty and safety guidelines.
Integrity ensures that every design improves the world honestly — not artificially.
Understanding Integrity in Design
Integrity in IB Design Technology combines creativity, ethics, and authenticity.
It includes:
- Original innovation: Solutions must reflect your independent design thinking.
- Ethical creation: Your work must respect human, social, and environmental factors.
- Transparent documentation: All references, influences, and data must be acknowledged.
As industrial designer Dieter Rams said, “Good design is honest.” In IB Design Technology, integrity is what makes your creativity credible.
Developing Original Design Ideas
Every project begins with ideation — and integrity must start there.
To maintain originality:
- Generate multiple ideas before settling on one.
- Reference inspiration from existing products clearly.
- Avoid copying design elements or blueprints.
- Document your brainstorming process to show independent thinking.
- Reflect on how your concept addresses a genuine user need.
Originality in design comes from problem-solving, not imitation.
Ethical Research and Data Use
Good design depends on good research — but that research must be conducted ethically.
- Obtain permission before collecting data from users.
- Keep personal or demographic data confidential.
- Cite all surveys, market studies, or design reports used.
- Avoid manipulating data to make your idea appear stronger.
- Use accurate, evidence-based statistics in justifications.
Integrity ensures your design decisions are supported by truth, not convenience.
Responsible Prototyping and Production
The making process also reflects your ethical standards.
To work responsibly:
- Use materials sustainably and avoid waste.
- Document every step of your prototype creation honestly.
- Acknowledge assistance or collaboration with peers or mentors.
- Follow safety protocols and IB lab guidelines.
- Recycle or repurpose materials where possible.
Sustainable design begins with ethical craftsmanship — every choice matters.
Avoiding Plagiarism and Idea Theft
Design plagiarism includes copying shapes, interfaces, or functions without acknowledgment.
Avoid this by:
- Crediting all references, patents, or prior designs.
- Creating your own sketches and CAD models.
- Not reusing projects from previous years.
- Avoiding “template” design ideas found online.
To stay ethical, focus on your interpretation — how you solve the problem differently.
Using Technology and AI Responsibly
Technology is central to design, but it must never replace creativity.
- Use CAD, CAM, or 3D modeling software to visualize your ideas — not to copy others’.
- Avoid AI-generated designs or automatic concept generators.
- Always disclose software and digital tools used.
- Ensure you understand every aspect of your design files.
Integrity means that your technology enhances your imagination — not replaces it.
Ethical and Sustainable Design Thinking
Every IB Design project should consider human and environmental impact.
- Evaluate how your solution affects users and communities.
- Choose materials and processes with minimal ecological harm.
- Consider accessibility, inclusivity, and safety in design.
- Reflect on the social and cultural implications of your work.
Ethical design aligns innovation with compassion — creativity that benefits everyone.
Transparent Documentation and Citation
Your design portfolio or IA must show the full journey — and integrity means documenting it accurately.
- Include sources for data, images, and inspiration.
- Record design decisions and failures honestly.
- Use consistent citation styles for all references.
- Credit collaborators and mentors where appropriate.
A transparent process is stronger than a polished one — it shows how learning becomes innovation.
Honest Evaluation and Reflection
Evaluation is where designers learn from reality — not rewrite it.
- Reflect on whether your design achieved its objectives.
- Discuss user feedback honestly, even if negative.
- Identify technical or conceptual weaknesses.
- Suggest practical improvements based on evidence.
IB examiners value authenticity — not perfection. Integrity means owning both success and failure.
Avoiding Collusion and Over-Assistance
Collaboration can enhance learning, but assessment must remain individual.
- Work independently on your design log and analysis.
- Avoid sharing full projects or CAD files.
- Credit any peer input or guidance.
- Keep clear ownership of your creative process.
Integrity ensures that your innovation truly represents your ability.
How RevisionDojo Supports Design Integrity
RevisionDojo helps IB Design Technology students balance innovation and honesty through:
- Guides on original design documentation and ethical sourcing.
- Lessons on sustainable materials and responsible design.
- Tutorials for ethical use of technology and reflection.
- Examples of IAs that demonstrate creativity grounded in integrity.
With RevisionDojo, students design with purpose, ethics, and confidence.
Conclusion: Integrity Is the Blueprint for Innovation
Design shapes the world — but integrity shapes design.
In IB Design Technology, originality, sustainability, and honesty turn ideas into impact.
When you document transparently, think ethically, and create authentically, you design solutions that last. Integrity is not a rule — it’s the framework for responsible innovation.
RevisionDojo Call to Action
Design responsibly. Innovate honestly.
Join RevisionDojo to master ethical creativity, transparent process documentation, and sustainable design thinking — the pillars of integrity in IB Design Technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What counts as plagiarism in IB Design Technology?
Copying or reusing existing designs, CAD files, or product ideas without credit is plagiarism.
2. Can I use AI or design templates?
AI tools or templates may inspire ideas but must not produce your final design. Always disclose their use.
3. How can I make my design more ethical?
Choose sustainable materials, prioritize inclusivity, and consider social and ecological impact throughout development.
4. What if my prototype fails?
Document and reflect on it honestly. Failure is part of innovation — integrity means learning from it.
5. How does RevisionDojo promote design integrity?
RevisionDojo provides lessons on ethical design, sustainability, and honest reflection, helping students innovate with conscience and credibility.
