How do you define and prioritize criteria and constraints for product design?

2 Research and brainstorm

The next step is to research and brainstorm possible solutions to the problem. You need to gather relevant information, data, and insights from various sources, such as market research, user feedback, competitor analysis, industry trends, and best practices. You also need to generate and explore different ideas, concepts, and alternatives for your product, using techniques such as brainstorming, mind mapping, sketching, prototyping, and testing.

3 Define criteria and constraints

The third step is to define the criteria and constraints for your product design. You need to identify and list the essential and desirable qualities, characteristics, and specifications of your product, such as functionality, usability, reliability, efficiency, aesthetics, sustainability, and cost. These are your criteria, which will help you evaluate and compare your design options. You also need to identify and list the factors that limit or challenge your design choices, such as time, budget, resources, regulations, standards, ethics, and risks. These are your constraints, which will help you identify and overcome the trade-offs and compromises in your design.

4 Prioritize criteria and constraints

The fourth step is to prioritize the criteria and constraints for your product design. You need to rank and weigh the importance and relevance of each criterion and constraint, based on the problem and the stakeholders. You can use tools such as matrices, tables, charts, or diagrams to organize and visualize your priorities. You also need to establish the minimum and maximum levels or ranges for each criterion and constraint, which will help you define the boundaries and goals of your design.

5 Evaluate and select

The fifth step is to evaluate and select the best design option for your product. You need to compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of each design option, based on the criteria and constraints. You can use methods such as scoring, rating, ranking, or voting to assess and select the most feasible, viable, and desirable design option. You also need to justify and communicate your design decision, using evidence, logic, and reasoning.

6 Test and refine

The final step is to test and refine your product design. You need to validate and verify your design solution, using feedback, data, and metrics. You can use techniques such as prototyping, testing, measuring, or reviewing to check and improve the functionality, usability, reliability, efficiency, aesthetics, sustainability, and cost of your product. You also need to monitor and adjust your design solution, based on the changing criteria and constraints.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?