Discussion and review questions:

1. What are some of the factors that cause organizations to redesign their products or
services?
A. Economic – low demand
B. Social and demographic – population shifts
C. Political, liability or legal – new regulations
D. Competitive – new products or services
E. Cost or availability – raw materials
F. Technological – processes
2. Contrast applied research and basic research.
- Applied research is a type of research that aims to address a specific problem or
answer a specific question, while basic research refers to a research project that
aims to add to the existing body of scientific knowledge. Applied research is
concerned with development of technology and techniques while basic research is
concerned with developing scientific knowledge and predictions.
3. What is CAD? Describe some of the ways a product designer can use it.
- Computer-aided design is a product design using computer graphic. The designer
can modify an existing design or create a new one on a monitor by means of light
pen a keyboard, a joystick or a similar device. Once the design is entered into the
computer, the designer can maneuver it on the screen. The designer can obtain a
printed version oof the completed design and file it electronically, making it
accessible to people in the firm who need this information.
4. Name some of the main advantages and disadvantages of standardization.
a. Advantages:
i. training time is reduced
ii. readily supply of inventory
iii. automation
b. Disadvantages:
i. Designs stuck in production because of complexities and imperfections
ii. High cost
iii. Less consumer appeal

5. What is modular design? What are its main advantages and disadvantages?
- Modular design is a form of standardization that represent grouping of component
parts into subassemblies, usually to the point where the individual parts lose their
separates identity.
Advantage: failures are often easier to diagnose and remedy because there are
fewer pieces to investigate.
Disadvantage: the number of possible configurations of modules is much less than
the number of possible configurations based on individual components.