Design Technology (DP)

1.1 Design is a process that links innovation and creativity.

1.2 Design provides a structured process based on well-established design principles to resolve authentic problems.

1.3 Design involves generating ideas, exploring the possibilities and constraints to find solutions.

1.4 Design is a cyclical and iterative process.

1.5 Design is human-centred and focuses on the needs, wants and limitations of the end user.

1.6 Competent design can be achieved by all and is not restricted to uniquely skilled individuals. The use of well-established design principles and processes increases the probability that a design will be successful.

1.7 Designers use a wide variety of concepts, principles and strategies, which, taken together, make up what is known as design methodology. Designers adapt their approach to different design contexts, but they have a common understanding of the process necessary to form valid and suitable solutions.

1.8 Competent design requires imagination and creativity together with substantial factual, procedural and conceptual knowledge.

1.9 In-depth investigation of the nature of a problem is required to establish clear parameters for a design specification. This determines the scope of a solution and is necessary for good decision-making.

1.10 Designers must adopt an approach that allows them to think creatively within the constraints of a

design specification. The ability to create unique and original solutions to a proposed problem is

advantageous.

1.11 Designers need to critically explore the latest advances in technology to determine whether they can be used to develop the best solution to a problem. Traditional methods can be more appropriate and user-friendly.

1.12 Design is a collaborative endeavour requiring diverse teams of experts to realize a tangible solution.

1.13 Modelling is central to design. This involves cognitive, graphical, physical, aesthetic, mechanical, and digital modelling.

1.14 The growth in computing power has made modelling much more powerful. The generation of digital prototypes allows dynamic modelling of complex situations. Simulations involving large amounts of data, large numbers of variables and complex calculations speed up the design process and extend possible solutions.

1.15 A designer should maintain an unbiased view of a situation and evaluate a context objectively, highlighting the strengths, weaknesses and opportunities of a product, service or system.

1.16 Designers have a responsibility to the community and the environment. Their decisions often have major impact on both and they must always be aware of the ethical and moral dimensions of their work.

1.17 Design is carried out by a community of people from a wide variety of backgrounds and traditions, and this has clearly influenced the way design has progressed at different times. However, it is important to understand that design is universal and has common understandings, methodologies, and goals.

1.18 Designers must consider how users will interact with, use and misuse the products they design.

1.19 Designers should be aware that with the advancement of technology, there are now issues surrounding security and safety of personal data that need to be addressed in the majority of contexts.

1.20 Design permeates every aspect of human experience. Individuals make design decisions in all areas of their work, home and leisure.

Design technology guide