Understanding Adjustability and Range of Sizes
Adjustability
Definition
Adjustability
Adjustability is the ability of a product to change in size or form to suit a wider range of user sizes or percentiles, improving comfort, fit, and usability.
- Allows one product to serve multiple users, reduces cost, promotes longevity
- Allows users to tailor products to their preferences.
- Makes products suitable for multiple environments or tasks - versatility.
- Extends product lifespan by adapting to changing user needs.
Challenges of Adjustability
- Complexity: can increase manufacturing costs and design complexity.
- Durability: moving parts may wear out faster or weakened structural integrity
- Aesthetics: appear overengineered or bulky
Example
- Office Chairs: Adjustable height, armrests, and lumbar support.
- Bicycles: Adjustable seat and handlebar heights.
Range of Sizes
Definition
Range of sizes
A range of sizes refers to a selection of product sizes designed to accommodate the majority of users within a target market, often based on anthropometric data.
- Provides a precise fit for different body types.
- Ensures optimal functionality, especially in products like clothing or footwear.
- Reduces the risk of injury by ensuring proper fit.
Challenges of a Range of Sizes
- Requires stocking multiple sizes.
- May not accommodate users outside standard size ranges.
Example
- Clothing: Offered in sizes like S, M, L, XL.
- Beds: Offered in standard sizes like twin, queen, and king.
Note
- Adjustability and range of sizes are not mutually exclusive.
- A product can incorporate both strategies to maximise usability.
Self review
Identify a product you use daily.
- Does it rely on adjustability, a range of sizes, or both?
- How does this design choice impact your experience?
Example question
Explain two reasons why designers might choose to make a product adjustable instead of producing it in a range of sizes. Provide an example to support each.
Solution
Award 2 marks for each point (2 × 2 marks):
- 1 mark for a valid reason for choosing adjustability:
- Cost efficiency in production
- Accommodates a range of users
- Extends product lifespan
- 1 mark for a relevant example that supports the reason
