Users, manufacturers, and engineers are all stakeholders involved in product analysis. Each examines the product from a different perspective, producing evidence for a balanced evaluation rather than focusing only on whether the product works.
In product analysis, an existing product is systematically examined to identify its strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. Under C3.1 Product analysis and evaluation, stakeholders may judge criteria such as function, performance, ergonomics, aesthetics, materials, manufacturing, cost, safety, and sustainability.
| Stakeholder | Main focus in product analysis | Typical evidence or questions |
|---|---|---|
| Users | Usability, comfort, accessibility, aesthetics, safety, and satisfaction | Is the product intuitive? Is it comfortable and appropriate for the target user? User trials, interviews, observations, and questionnaires provide evidence. |
| Manufacturers | Production feasibility, cost, quality control, assembly, scale, and material availability | Can the product be manufactured consistently and economically? Could components, processes, or assembly stages be simplified? |
| Engineers | Technical feasibility, performance, reliability, structures, mechanisms, materials, and safety | Does the product meet its performance requirements? Will its materials and components withstand expected forces and operating conditions? |
These perspectives can conflict. For example, a user may prefer a lightweight product, while an engineer may require additional material for strength; the manufacturer may prefer fewer components to reduce production time and cost. Product evaluation therefore involves balancing stakeholder requirements and identifying justified design improvements.
A common misconception is that only users conduct product analysis. Users provide essential feedback, but manufacturers and engineers contribute technical and production evidence that users may not be able to assess.