ID Defined - Comprehensive Description of Industrial Design
Industrial Design is the professional service of creating and
developing concepts and specifications that optimize the function,
value and appearance of products and systems for the mutual benefit of
both user and manufacturer.
Industrial Designers develop these concepts and specifications
through collection, analysis and synthesis of data guided by the
special requirements of the client or manufacturer. They are trained to
prepare clear and concise recommendations through drawings, models and
verbal descriptions.
Industrial Design services are often provided within the context of
cooperative working relationships with other members of a development
group. Typical groups include management, marketing, engineering and
manufacturing specialists. The Industrial Designer expresses concepts
that embody all relevant design criteria determined by the group.
The Industrial Designer's unique contribution places emphasis on
those aspects of the product or system that relate most directly to
human characteristics needs and interests. This contribution requires
specialized understanding of visual, tactile, safety and convenience
criteria, with concern for the user. Education and experience in
anticipating psychological, physiological and sociological factors that
influence and are perceived by the user are essential Industrial Design
resources.
Industrial Designers also maintain a practical concern for technical
processes and requirements for manufacture; marketing opportunities and
economic constraints; and distribution sales and servicing processes.
They work to ensure that design recommendations use materials and
technology effectively, and comply with all legal and regulatory
requirements.
In addition to supplying concepts for products and systems,
Industrial Designers are often retained for consultation on a variety
of problems that have to do with a client's image. Such assignments
include product and organization identity systems, development of
communication systems, interior space planning and exhibit design,
advertising devices and packaging and other related services. Their
expertise is sought in a wide variety of administrative arenas to
assist in developing industrial standards, regulatory guidelines and
quality control procedures to improve manufacturing operations and
products.
Industrial Designers, as professionals, are guided by their
awareness of obligations to fulfil contractual responsibilities to
clients, to protect the public safety and well being, to respect the
environment and to observe ethical business practice.
| 
