A digital technologies outcome is something that is developed using digital tools or techniques.
It may be wholly digital, i.e. we can only view or use it on a screen, or could be partly physical, i.e. we develop it on a screen but it is something we can see, hear, or touch.
There are many potential outcomes, examples of which include:
digital media outcomes such as a poster, menu, webpage, clothing design, or 3D digital or printed models
digital entertainment outcomes such as a video game, music track, fanzine, digital artwork, or short film
digital infrastructure outcomes such as a computer system or network
electronics outcomes such as an environmental monitoring system, wearable tech, or robot
digital information outcomes such as a database or data analysis spreadsheet
programming outcomes such as an ordering system or learning aid
If you've come this far you hopefully already have a good idea of what you are creating after your mini project.
If you're joining the class at this point then there will be a bit of extra work to do at the start of the process to decide what your outcome is going to be and, most importantly, why.
Both product design and product development are technology disciplines that work together to bring a product from concept to completion.
Product design focuses on creating the overall concept, functionality, and aesthetics of a product, considering user needs and market trends. It involves brainstorming ideas, creating prototypes, and refining designs through user feedback.
Product development involves the practical implementation of those designs into an actual product. This includes content development, manufacturing, testing, and refining the product.
These two processes work together seamlessly: design informs development by providing the blueprint for what needs to be created, while development feedback informs design by highlighting practical constraints and opportunities for improvement.
At the start of your project you will probably be almost all about design. By the end you will be almost all about development.
This video explains these differences from the viewpoint of web design
This course teaches then assesses your ability to apply design conventions in developing a digital media outcome. You will identify the purpose and end-user needs, research relevant conventions and implications, and generate design ideas.
Through modeling, testing, and trialling (feedback), you will refine your design to ensure usability, aesthetics, and functionality.
By the end, you will produce a well-considered, informed, and refined digital media design that demonstrates your understanding of conventions, implications, and user-centered design principles.
You will describe, explain, and justify your design decisions.