Many engineers utilize the structured design process in order to meet the demands of customers. This process can help to give structure to projects and encourages creative thinking. The objective raw data that is collected during the process can reduce bias and improve decision-making. In addition the engineering process can teach that failures and setbacks could be useful sources for future information.
Problem definition is the first stage of the engineering design process. Engineers must be clear about what their product can do and why it is needed. This is crucial for the rest of the engineering process.
After defining the problem It is important to collect the most information regarding the solution. This can be done through research, asking questions and thinking about ideas. This is where engineering creativity really shines and where the most innovative solutions can emerge.
Engineers need to identify possible solutions and weigh their pros and cons before selecting the most suitable. The solution should also meet the requirements of the project (e.g. materials, cost, time and space).
Once the best solution has been determined, it is recommended to design a model of the product or equipment. Then tests can be run to determine if the product can do what it is supposed to do. It is possible to reduce the total time to develop a product by identifying problems in the early stages. This also saves money on fixing problems later.