Problem Analysis

A Problem Analysis 'plan' is of the areas that you should research and consider - things that you need to know if you are going to successfully solve the problem, so therefore a series of questions that you pose / ask (that you need to find the answers to).

This could take the form of a bullet point list of questions, separated into sub-sections, that identifies areas of research and questions that you need to investigate / research, to solve your project. Your research 'plan' needs to be targeted and relevant, not generic, and it should focus on the problem, product and user needs in order to find out useful information that will help you make decisions about what you intend to design and make. Listed below are some starter points that you could consider using on your Problem Analysis plan / bullet point question list:

Existing Solutions, User, Materials, Aesthetics, Design, Form, Function, Environmental issues, Cost, Components, Construction technology, Price Ranges, Economics, Safety, Size, Ergonomics, Anthropometrics, Industrial Practices & Processes, Finish, new technologies, new manufacturing processes, new materials etc. 

You could also comment / write questions on:

Manufacture processes - What processes may you need to know about in order for your design to be manufactured? Are you intending to solve the problem and manufacture your final designs using any CAD or CAM? 

Existing Solutions - What products are already available on the market? What are the features of these products that make them good or bad? What are the best selling products (use Lazada / Amazon ratings or best selling) and ask why?

Anthropometrics - Anthropometrics are the measurements of the average person / man / woman / baby etc. that help designers decide what size to design products and make them more ergonomic (see below). 

Ergonomics - describes how people interact with products. If a product is comfortable it could be described as being ergonomic. It is linked to anthropometrics and size.

Environmental issues - comment on the environmental issues you could consider. Use of recycled materials, reducing the amount of materials your product uses, design for disassembly, using renewable energy sources, solar panels, wind up power, wind power etc. This could also link to manufacture e.g. where a product is manufactured will affect how environmentally friendly it is if it has to be shipped to a different country after manufacture.

You could also use an analysis strategy to help you do this, such as the 5W’s. This is Who will use the product? Where will the product be used? Why is the product needed? What precisely does the product have to do? When will the product be used?

'I am considering designing and manufacturing a Bluetooth amplifier or speaker, for a client that lives in Bangkok and who has expensive tastes. They like luxury products using high end, niche materials and generally a minimalistic styling. 

I have listed some questions that I need to try and research or solve, based around my design brief.

Problem Analysis questions:

• What are the different types of Bluetooth audio technologies available?

• What are the key features and specifications to consider when selecting Bluetooth circuit boards?

• How can the amplifier or speaker ensure a stable and strong Bluetooth connection?

• What is the typical range for Bluetooth connectivity, and how can it be optimised?

• How can I incorporate WiFi or NFC connectivity into the speaker? Is this possible?

• What are the best ways for designing a user-friendly and intuitive touch control interface?

• Are there any industry standards or guidelines for Bluetooth speaker design that I need to consider?

• What are the key considerations for achieving high-quality audio sound?

• How can I ensure power efficiency without compromising sound quality?

• What are the common challenges in designing compact and sleek speaker enclosures?

• Which materials offer the best combination of durability and aesthetic appeal for the casing?

• What are the different methods for manufacturing speaker enclosures?

• Are there any regulations or safety standards specific to Bluetooth audio devices that I should consider?

• How can I optimise the sound output for different types of music or audio content?

• What are the key factors to consider when selecting and positioning speakers within the enclosure?

• Are there any techniques for enhancing bass response in a compact speaker design?

• How can I achieve a balanced audio sound?

• What are the typical power requirements for Bluetooth speakers?

• What are the best ways for power management and energy efficiency?

• How can I ensure compatibility with a wide range of Bluetooth-enabled devices?

• What are the current trends in luxury product design that could be incorporated into the speaker?

• How can you optimise the speaker's design for the User's living spaces and existing decor?

• Are there any design considerations specific to hardwood, brushed aluminum, or high-quality materials?

• Are there any cost-effective alternatives to high-end materials that can achieve a similar aesthetic appeal?

• How can I ensure easy maintenance and cleaning of the speaker?

• How can I gather and analyse user feedback to improve future iterations of the product?

• Are there any specific quality control tests or certifications that the product should undergo?

• How can I address any potential safety concerns related to electrical components?

• What are the current market trends and competitive landscape for Bluetooth speakers?

• How can I effectively position and market the product as a luxury offering for the User?

• What are the best websites / shops for sourcing high-quality components and materials for the product?

Materials:

• What are the unique characteristics and properties of hardwoods that make them suitable for the speaker's casing?

• Are there specific types of hardwood that offer better acoustic properties or durability?

• What are the different finishes and treatments available for hardwood to enhance its aesthetic appeal and protection?

• What are the considerations when working with brushed aluminum?

• Are there alternative materials to high-quality acrylic that can provide similar visual effects and durability?

• How do different materials affect the overall weight and portability of the speaker?

• Can I source sustainable or eco-friendly versions of the desired materials?

• Are there any limitations or challenges in terms of availability or cost for the chosen materials?

Ergonomics:

• What are the key ergonomic considerations when designing the speaker controls for user comfort and ease of use?

• How can the placement and design of the controls optimise user interaction and minimise accidental adjustments?

• Are there any specific guidelines or standards for ergonomic design in audio equipment?

• What are the considerations for button size, spacing, and tactile feedback to ensure intuitive operation?

• Can I incorporate features like backlit buttons or touch-sensitive surfaces for improved usability in low-light environments?

• How can the shape and weight distribution of the speaker contribute to comfortable handling and portability?

• Are there any ergonomic challenges to consider when designing the speaker for placement in different living spaces?

• Can I integrate adjustable components, such as tilting stands or adjustable heights, to accommodate different user preferences or room setups?