The Design Process: Stage 7- Production

Wow, is this really the last of our reading for this class?  Hard to believe.  Anyways, here goes my last reading response...

Production is the last stage of the design process, but the job is not quite done yet.  The idea must now become an actual object.  To make this happen you must work with a production team and the feedback you have received in order to produce the best possible outcome for the object that was once merely an idea. 

Aspelund also discusses the importance of prototyping and testing during the production process.  There are three different types of prototypes, which are: concept prototype, throwaway prototype, and evolutionary prototype.  Aspelund describes the prototype model as being a representation of the idea that can be roughly thrown together but it's main purpose is to communicate the basic concept to the design team as well as the client.  A throwaway prototype is a model that is created to test a particular aspect of the design, which most often is functionality, interaction with environment, and exploration of the object's scale.  Evolutionary prototyping is used when specifications are not certain or need to be explored further.  Changes can be made to this prototype as new decisions are made and explored.  Aspelund states that it is very important that one must not confuse the prototype with reality.

Part of the reality of designs are the decisions made based on budgets, scheduling, materials/aesthetics, and sustainability.  A designer's job is about making choices and these choices are highly influenced by budget, time allotted for the project, and materials.  These choices will all effect the outcome of the object.
Lastly, Aspelund reminds me that I must not forget to always document my projects as a designer.  I have learned the hard way about the importance of this due to crashed hard drives, but another reminder doesn't hurt.  As a designer I must keep a record of all of my work and keep it neat and organized for future reference.  Who knows when I might need it later for my portfolio or as an example for a client.