4. Developing Accurate and Appropriate Detailed Design Specifications
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The Blueprint of Success * **Chunk Text:** Design specifications are detailed statements that describe the essential criteria a design must meet. * **Detailed Explanation:** Specifications are the bridge between a vague idea and a real product. Without them, you might build something beautiful that doesn't actually fit its purpose or its user. * **Real-Life Example or Analogy:** Think of it like a recipe. A design brief says "Make a cake." A design specification says "Must contain 200g of flour, bake at 180Β°C for 30 minutes, and serve 8 people." One is a wish; the other is a plan.
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Chapter Content
Design specifications are detailed statements that describe the essential criteria a design must meet.
* Detailed Explanation: Specifications are the bridge between a vague idea and a real product. Without them, you might build something beautiful that doesn't actually fit its purpose or its user.
* Real-Life Example or Analogy: Think of it like a recipe. A design brief says "Make a cake." A design specification says "Must contain 200g of flour, bake at 180Β°C for 30 minutes, and serve 8 people." One is a wish; the other is a plan.
Detailed Explanation
Specifications are the bridge between a vague idea and a real product. Without them, you might build something beautiful that doesn't actually fit its purpose or its user.
* Real-Life Example or Analogy: Think of it like a recipe. A design brief says "Make a cake." A design specification says "Must contain 200g of flour, bake at 180Β°C for 30 minutes, and serve 8 people." One is a wish; the other is a plan.
Examples & Analogies
Think of it like a recipe. A design brief says "Make a cake." A design specification says "Must contain 200g of flour, bake at 180Β°C for 30 minutes, and serve 8 people." One is a wish; the other is a plan.
The Importance of Measurability * **Chunk Text:** A strong specification is measurable, using specific numbers or units. * **Detailed Explanation:** Subjectivity is the enemy of good design. If you say a product must be "light," an engineer might make it 1kg while you wanted 100g. By using numbers, you create an objective "Pass/Fail" test. * **Real-Life Example or Analogy:** If you tell a friend to meet you "soon," you might wait for an hour. If you tell them to meet you at "2:15 PM," you both have a measurable standard to follow. --
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Chapter Content
A strong specification is measurable, using specific numbers or units.
* Detailed Explanation: Subjectivity is the enemy of good design. If you say a product must be "light," an engineer might make it 1kg while you wanted 100g. By using numbers, you create an objective "Pass/Fail" test.
* Real-Life Example or Analogy: If you tell a friend to meet you "soon," you might wait for an hour. If you tell them to meet you at "2:15 PM," you both have a measurable standard to follow.
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Detailed Explanation
Subjectivity is the enemy of good design. If you say a product must be "light," an engineer might make it 1kg while you wanted 100g. By using numbers, you create an objective "Pass/Fail" test.
* Real-Life Example or Analogy: If you tell a friend to meet you "soon," you might wait for an hour. If you tell them to meet you at "2:15 PM," you both have a measurable standard to follow.
--
Examples & Analogies
If you tell a friend to meet you "soon," you might wait for an hour. If you tell them to meet you at "2:15 PM," you both have a measurable standard to follow.
Key Concepts
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SMART Criteria: Ensuring every requirement is Specific and Measurable.
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Anthropometrics: Using human body measurements (dimensions) to create ergonomic specifications.
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Objective Evaluation: Using specifications as the grading rubric for the final prototype.
Examples & Applications
Poor Spec: "The packaging should be eco-friendly."
Strong Spec: "The packaging must be manufactured from 100% post-consumer recycled cardboard and be recyclable in standard municipal bins."
Flash Cards
Glossary
- Target Audience
The specific group of people for whom the product is designed.
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