Design Specification
A design specification lists the measurable requirements a design must meet — function, size, materials, cost, user, safety and aesthetics — so the final product can be tested against it.
Also called design spec or product design specification.
Advanced◷ 30–60 minFree · no login
What exactly does your design have to do?
How to use it + an example
How to use it
- 1Take the key findings from research and the design brief.
- 2Write each requirement so it can be tested, with a number or clear check wherever possible.
- 3Explain the research behind each requirement, then use the list to judge ideas and the final product.
Example
"The phone stand must hold a phone at 60° and not tip over when tapped" can be tested; "the stand must be good" cannot.
When to use it: After research and before developing ideas; it becomes the checklist for evaluation (MYP Design Criterion B i, then D).
Prototype: Make it real, roughly, then properly.
Your turn ↓
What are you designing?
Define your design in detail: requirements, constraints, user needs, success criteria and precise specifications. A specification is a contract between you and your maker — be clear, be precise.
Look back. Which requirement will be hardest to test, and how will you test it?
Try next
- Quick SketchRapid sketching with timer to explore ideas visually.Try it free →
- PMI ChartEvaluate ideas by listing Plus, Minus, and Interesting points.Try it free →
- Decision MatrixScore options against weighted criteria to make informed choices.Try it free →
For teachers: Prototype stage · 30-60m. Free, no login. One of the 45 design thinking tools on StudioLoom, which also puts them inside lessons so students’ thinking is saved with their project.