Isaac Hall​​​​​

Define the Problem – Defining the problem is part of the initial phase of the design process, which is the most vital phase. During this phase we determine the cause behind the effect that has been identified. The effect may be abnormal vibrations or some similar defect plaguing a once perfectly normal valve. The effect may also be one that we would like to have on a consumer, such as the ability to cross a waterway safely and easily. After we understand the effect, we can begin to pursue the problem, or cause, and narrow down the possible causes/ideas. This is called a root-cause analysis.                                                                                                                             

Do Background Research – Doing research is another part of the initial phase of the design process. In almost any design scenario there is existing research from a similar design or concept that can aid in the design process. This also extends to the root-cause analysis in step 1. I have found that often the key to moving past a design failure, or avoiding one in the new design, is in the research I conduct prior to constructing my design. Research also gives credibility to a design or solution that otherwise would stand alone.                                                                                                                                           

Specify Requirements – In this step of the initial design phase it is crucial to engage stakeholders in the design. Knowing the parameters required for the design shapes the design itself. The end user knows the most about the function of the design, which shapes the requirements the design must meet.                                                                                                                                                        

Brainstorm, Evaluate, and Choose Solution – This step begins the next phase of the design process, which is the design phase. It is during this step that, using the knowledge about the problem, ideas are put forth to eliminate the problem and, ideally, ensure the problem does not reoccur. Enhancements can also be suggested if cost-effective. This step is also heavily involved with the stakeholders and is iterative in itself.                                                                                                                                                                        

Develop and Prototype Solution – The solution should be developed in a prototype prior to attempting mass production. This is because often many snags or inefficiencies in the development process are uncovered and improved upon. This is process engineering, and this engineering design process works effectively for processes as well as products.                                                                                                                                                                                 

Test Solution – If the solution can be tested in a controlled environment, then it is in this step that this is done. This is not always an option, and often times the field itself is the testing environment. If the solution fails, then it is back to the drawing board. This is a unique step in that it exceeds the boundaries of the process flowchart via post modification testing and trending results after design is implemented.                                                                                                                                                                                         

Solution Meets Requirements/Solution Meets Requirements Partially or Not at All – After analyzing the results of the test it is determined whether the results of the test are satisfactory. If the solution meets the requirements, then I can continue to communicating the results. If the solution does not meet the requirements, I enter an iteration of the above steps, as described below.                                                                                                                                                                       

Based on Results and Data, Make Design Changes, Prototype, Test Again, and Review New Data – This step is an iterative loop in the process that allows me to review any steps from 4 through 7, or even steps before those steps, and make changes and proceed with the process as before. This loop is essential for refining the design effectively and to debug any requirements that were not met. It is important that a balance is established in this loop between not meeting design requirements and over engineering the design.                                                                                                                                                

Communicate Results – This step, the final phase of process, the conclusion phase, is the chance to express the culmination of all of the hard work by presenting the design. Presenting the design effectively is a challenging effort, making this step one not to be taken lightly. Proper presentation of the design leads to implementation, while improper presentation can lead to confusion and delays.