WHY SET-BASED DESIGN?
Set-based design is an approach in product development which advocates simultaneously exploring and developing multiple design alternatives or sets of solutions, rather than prematurely focusing on a single design concept. When implemented early in the development lifecycle, set-based design encourages teams to consider a range of possibilities and keep multiple options open until the design is emergent.
The core idea behind set-based design is to delay commitment to a specific solution until a deeper understanding of the problem and its constraints is gained. It acknowledges the inherent uncertainty and complexity of product development, recognizing that early commitment to a single design can lead to missed opportunities, suboptimal designs, and one of my fav.; costly changes later on.
Here are some key characteristics and benefits of set-based design:
Exploration of Alternatives:
Set-based design encourages teams to generate and explore a variety of design alternatives. This involves creating different sets of potential solutions, each addressing the problem from a unique perspective. By considering multiple options, teams can uncover a wider range of possibilities, evaluate trade-offs, and identify innovative approaches.
Knowledge Generation:
Through the exploration of different design sets, set-based design facilitates the creation of valuable knowledge. Each design alternative represents a hypothesis or experiment, allowing teams to learn about the system's behavior, requirements, and constraints. The insights gained from these experiments contribute to the team's understanding and inform the decision-making process.
Iterative Refinement:
Set-based design involves an iterative process where the sets of solutions are refined and improved over time. Instead of choosing a single design and refining it immediately, the focus is on learning from each set, extracting valuable information, and using it to enhance subsequent iterations. This iterative refinement helps to converge on a robust and optimized design solution. Bear caution to exercising Pivot or Persevere practices timely.
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Risk Mitigation:
By exploring multiple design alternatives simultaneously, set-based design helps mitigate risks associated with uncertainties and changes in requirements. It provides a buffer against unforeseen challenges, as teams have a range of options readily available. If unexpected issues arise, teams can pivot to an alternative design set without significant disruption or delay.
Flexibility and Adaptability:
Set-based design promotes flexibility and adaptability throughout the product development process. It allows teams to respond to new information, emerging customer needs, or technological advancements. The approach encourages continuous learning and adjustment, enabling teams to incorporate the latest insights and deliver a more refined and market-responsive product.
Overall, set-based design is a systematic approach that supports innovation, reduces risks, and enhances the overall quality of product development. By exploring multiple design alternatives, teams can generate valuable knowledge, make informed decisions, and create superior solutions that meet customer needs effectively.
Credit:
-??????Oosterwal, Dantar P. The Lean Machine: How Harley-Davidson Drove Top-Line Growth and Profitability with Revolutionary Lean Product Development. Amacom, 2010.