ABSTRACT
It is widely recognised that the quality of design is crucial to the success of the construction or production process. Fairly minor changes in design (e.g. constructibility reviews) can have major effects on the cost and efficiency of production or construction as well as on the usefulness and marketability of the product. The design paradigm can permeate whole companies (Philips is usually quoted as an example) or whole countries (Italy is well known for quality of design in many fields). It should be noted that the word ‘design’ is used here in its widest sense, i.e. including everything that is done by design rather than by accident. In this context, the definition would include:
Determination of the need to be filled.
Conceptualisation of a solution.
Embodiment and detail design.
Consideration of the effect and usefulness of the product.
