Many engineers employ the structured design process to offer solutions to the needs of customers. This process gives structure to the project and stimulates creativity. The objective raw data that is collected during the process will help reduce bias and improve decision-making. The engineering process also teaches that failures and setbacks can be useful sources of information for future projects.
The definition of a problem is the first step of the engineering design process. Engineers must be clear on what their product is going to do and why it is needed. This step is critical for the rest of the engineering process.
Once the problem has been identified, it’s important to gather the most information about the solution. This can be achieved by conducting research, posing important questions and brainstorming ideas. Here is where engineering creativity shines through and where the most inventive ideas can be generated.
Engineers must consider possible solutions and weigh their pros and cons prior to selecting the best. The solution must also fit the specifications of the project (e.g. cost, materials space, time, etc.) are all significant factors.
After the most effective solution has been selected it is a good idea to make an early prototype of the item or equipment. Then, tests can be conducted to determine if the product is performing as it is supposed to do. It is possible to shorten the total time to develop a product by identifying problems in the early stages. This can save money later on when fixing problems.