Once you have identified your focus area (possible project, including a Rationale with Aims and Objectives) you need to conduct some thorough investigation and analysis (research), with evaluative and analytical comments, of Primary and Secondary research. 

The Research section is crucial because it justifies your design decisions and directly informs your Design Specification.

The Research areas listed below are not exhaustive but highlight the main things you should be looking at in your Research phase:

This is important as it shows real engagement with users and real-world testing.

User Interviews / Questionnaires – to identify needs, wants, preferences, and constraints.

User Testing / Observations – analysing how users interact with existing products (e.g. ergonomic testing, usability issues).

Existing Products and Product Testing – evaluating and analysing existing products to identify strengths and weaknesses.

Anthropometric Data collection – measuring actual users to inform size / fit.

Mood Boards / Material Samples testing – gather opinions on colour, texture, and finish.

This is important as it builds background knowledge and justifies material, process, and style decisions.

Market Analysis – existing products, brands, price points, trends.

Material and Processes research – pros, cons, availability, sustainability, cost.

Technology research – suitable components, mechanisms, electronics, production methods.

Ergonomic and Anthropometric Data – from books like Henry Dreyfuss' “Measure of Man” (at the bookcase in Mr Douglas' workshop).

Sustainability / Lifecycle Analysis – environmental impact of materials / processes.

Aesthetic Styles / Design Movements – relevant design influences and cultural trends.

Legislation / Standards – safety, environmental, or manufacturing standards (e.g. RoHS, CE, FSC).

Below I have included some examples of research strategies for two different project ideas

Primary Research:

• Interviews with golfers (amateur and club-level) about pain points with existing trolleys: weight, storage, terrain handling, style.

• Survey to identify preferences on style, materials, foldability, and technology (e.g. GPS or power assist).

• Observation of trolley use at golf courses, focusing on terrain interaction, handling, and storage during transport.

• Ergonomic testing of handle height, grip comfort, wheel size preferences.

Secondary Research:

• Golf trolley market analysis — design trends, prices, target demographics.

• Research into hardwood timbers (e.g. teak, iroko, ash) suitable for outdoor weather resistance.

• Comparison of lightweight metals (e.g. aluminum, brass) for structural components.

• 3D printing applications for modular parts, clips, or custom accessories.

• Study of IP ratings and weatherproofing for outdoor use.

• Research into sustainable sourcing of materials (e.g., FSC-certified woods, recyclable metals).

Primary Research:

Questionnaire for boarding students: comfort, study habits, aesthetic preferences.

Measurements taken of users (height, leg length, posture). Get averages as well as your User.

Observational research on how students sit while studying, reading, or relaxing. Take photographs and analyse.

Testing of a range of existing chair heights and angles for backrest support.

Secondary Research:

Ergonomic data for teenagers (e.g., British Standards, Henry Dreyfuss 'data').

Material research into durable, lightweight woods, joining secondary materials and sustainable plastics.

Style research into current youth design trends (Scandinavian minimalism, colour blocking).

Analysis of school furniture requirements (e.g., fire retardancy, safety edges).

Environmental research into recycled plastics or reclaimed wood options.