Design Specifications
Definition
Design Specifcation
A design specification is a detailed list of requirements, constraints, and important considerations that a product must meet.
The Role of Design Specifications
- Translate research findings into actionable design criteria.
- Define the boundaries of the solution.
- Allow for clear evaluation and testing of the final product.
- Ensure the product meets both user needs and technical feasibility.
Design specifications are not just technical requirements. They also include aesthetic, ergonomic, and sustainability considerations.
Constructing Design Specifications
Step 1 - Conduct Research
- Primary Research: Use interviews, surveys, observations, and user testing to understand needs directly from users.
- Secondary Research: Analyse existing products, material data, safety standards, and industry trends to provide wider context.
Step 2 - Identify Success Criteria
- Essential Criteria: Critical for function, safety, and usability. Without these, the product fails to meet its purpose.
- Desirable Criteria: Non-critical features that improve comfort, appeal, or convenience based on user preferences.
