Design and Technology students are often introduced to the concept of iterative design: a cyclic approach that involves repeatedly refining a design through cycles of prototyping, testing, and improvement, resulting in a new iteration. It is based on the idea that design solutions are best developed through an ongoing process of creating a prototype, testing it with users, analysing feedback, making improvements and repeating the cycle.
ITERATIVE DESIGN: A cyclic process of prototyping, testing, analysing, and refining a product or process, where each version is improved based on feedback and evaluation.
0445 Design & Technology Syllabus, 2028-2030, Cambridge International Examinations
Iterative design prioritises the value of user feedback and real-life testing, rather than making assumptions about what is needed. Iterative design is similar to continuous improvement processes, such as Kaizen,™ a Japanese term meaning “change for better,” which focuses on making small, ongoing improvements over time, rather than occasional disruptive changes.
Advantages of using an iterative design process
- Design problems can be discovered quickly and fixed (as they are subjected to ongoing testing)
- Design improves over time
- Costly errors or can be avoided
- Mimics what often happens in real life – the way products are used and refined over time
Examples of iterative design
Dyson vacuum cleaners
- James Dyson created 5,127 prototypes over 5 years before launching his first bagless vacuum (started with a cardboard and tape prototype attached to his existing vacuum)
- Iteratively refined through thousands of versions
- Each iteration tested different angles, sizes, and configurations, with continuous testing and refinement of airflow patterns
- Modern versions still use an iterative design process, with each new model a refinement on the previous one (incorporating user feedback and technological improvements)
PlayStation Controller
- The handheld input device that controls the Playstation game (with buttons, joysticks, and triggers) shows clear evolution (change across time) from 1994 to present day
- Started with a basic controller, eventually moving to pressure sensitive buttons, motion sensing capabilities, touch pad, and refined ergonomics.
- Extensive user testing and feedback over the years has shaped the design
- Multiple prototypes and versions, with gradual refinement
- Technical improvements building upon previous learning
- Responding to market competition and customer needs
Amiria has a Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Bachelor of Architecture (First Class Honours) and a Graduate Diploma of Teaching. She is a CIE Accredited Art & Design and Design & Technology Coursework Assessor. Amiria now teaches Art, Design & Technology at ACG Parnell College.