Constraints and Considerations

Factors​

Description​

Function​

This is what the system will be used for or what it will need to do.​

User needs, requirements and parameters​

The system is designed to meet the needs and preferences of users or customers (the market). This involves not only ensuring that the system functions well and performs its tasks effectively but also prioritising factors such as longevity and durability. Considerations such as the size and portability of the system should also be taken into account to ensure suitability for the user. System parameters need to be identified so that they are optimised for system performance.​

Materials and components​

Appropriate materials and components must be selected that will meet user requirements and performance expectations.​

This may include considerations such as aesthetics – such as colour, shape and surface finish of the covering/housing – and ensuring that components are neatly joined, wires are tied and trimmed, and connections are secured.​

It is important to know what types of tools are available to allow for efficient production of the system and how these tools are used.​

Environment use​

This is where the system will be used and the conditions to which it will be subjected.​

Safety​

Safety must be considered at all stages of creation and use of the system. The risk assessment and management process is used to identify and minimise risk or harm for the maker or user.​

This may include adherence to quality standards related to the physical characteristics and safety features of the system being created. It is essential to ensure compliance with guidelines, legal requirements or restrictions, including those pertaining to the materials used, and safety regulations, such as age restrictions.​

Cost​

The system should be cost-effective. Users or customers expect both quality and value. The cost of components, housings and ongoing running and maintenance costs must be considered.​

Waste and energy​

Waste produced during creation and use should be minimised. Energy used in the production of the system and running costs also need to be kept to a minimum. This can include using the cradle-to-cradle (C2C) analysis for design development and construction and/or deconstruction.​

Factors​

Description​

Function​

This is what the system will be used for or what it will need to do.​

User needs, requirements and parameters​

The system is designed to meet the needs and preferences of users or customers (the market). This involves not only ensuring that the system functions well and performs its tasks effectively but also prioritising factors such as longevity and durability. Considerations such as the size and portability of the system should also be taken into account to ensure suitability for the user. System parameters need to be identified so that they are optimised for system performance.​

Materials and components​

Appropriate materials and components must be selected that will meet user requirements and performance expectations.​

This may include considerations such as aesthetics – such as colour, shape and surface finish of the covering/housing – and ensuring that components are neatly joined, wires are tied and trimmed, and connections are secured.​

It is important to know what types of tools are available to allow for efficient production of the system and how these tools are used.​

Environment use​

This is where the system will be used and the conditions to which it will be subjected.​

Safety​

Safety must be considered at all stages of creation and use of the system. The risk assessment and management process is used to identify and minimise risk or harm for the maker or user.​

This may include adherence to quality standards related to the physical characteristics and safety features of the system being created. It is essential to ensure compliance with guidelines, legal requirements or restrictions, including those pertaining to the materials used, and safety regulations, such as age restrictions.​

Cost​

The system should be cost-effective. Users or customers expect both quality and value. The cost of components, housings and ongoing running and maintenance costs must be considered.​

Waste and energy​

Waste produced during creation and use should be minimised. Energy used in the production of the system and running costs also need to be kept to a minimum. This can include using the cradle-to-cradle (C2C) analysis for design development and construction and/or deconstruction.​