User needs
user wants
Stakeholder requirements
You should also outline the technical requirements of your outcome here - things that can be measured/ tested in an evaluation.
it's key that all the decisions you make about the direction of the project are justified and evidence based - not just decided on by yourself. The user/ stakeholder should be at the centre of the project - meeting their requirements is the aim.
Below are some examples of what you might consider including in your list:
> What does the outcome need to do? (this is a key one - what will make it successful?)
> Does it need to be durable/ tough/ hard/ strong? (think properties/ characteristics)
> Does it need to be safe? If so, how?
> What ergonomic considerations might it need to include?
> Should it be innovative?
> Should it be easy to manufacture, repair or disassemble?
> Does it need to be adjustable in any way? If so, from what to what?
> Could it include the use of reclaimed or sustainable materials?
> What sort of style will it be designed in?
> Should it be simple to use?
> Should social/ moral/ cultural/ environmental issues be considered?
> Do any specific measurements/ quantities need to be considered?
Make sure you justify your choices
Do not specify exact details about your solution - anything too specific may prevent you from being able to come up with a range of different ideas (you will need to create 10 varied ideas). You don't want to become fixated.
Don't specify materials
Don't specify specific shapes
Don't specify anything related to a 'design'
Consider presenting it as a table with titles similar to this:
Solution requirement
identified by
A need?
A want?
A requirement?
page of evidence
justification
supporting research completed
any further investigations?
what is the requirement?
It must be
It must have
It must include
It must consider
is it a need/ want/ requirement of the user, the designer or a wider stakeholder?
where is the information/ evidence that supports this requirement?
why is this so important for solution/ project success?
details of research that has been completed so far
what further research needs to be completed to explore this?
Once you have completed this list of master requirements it will be time to start looking at your design ideas. The areas above will need to be a structured focus for your ideas.