THE DESIGN METHODS HANDBOOK
3.20 Product Evaluation & Analysis Diagram
Initial Cost - Retail Cost
The average cost of a desk stapler is $14.95
Maintenance Cost
No maintenance cost associated with the use of a desk stapler. The only maintenance is removing a jammed stapler.
Used to analyze existing products or systems and new product concepts.
The diagram consists of influencing factors, performance criteria, an evaluation scale, and comments.
Performance Criteria
Required Performance Criteria is a critical part of Product Planning, it could contribute
more than 50% of design success or failure.
Comprehensive and well-thought criteria might even motivate innovative problem-solving.
The Performance Criteria can be measured quantitatively or qualitatively for each parameter.
Refer to the essential aspects of the product in terms of the three functions- Human function, Technical Function, and Production Function. Performance Criteria could come from the following and other sources:
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Industry standards
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Client’s expectations (from Brief)
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Competing products (from Comparative Chart, SWOT analysis, /heuristic Plan of Action, and other research methods.)
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User study (from Interviews, Questionnaires, and Observations)
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Technical factors - material usage
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Production constraints - manufacturing limitations - market plans
This diagram uses a numerical method to validate the performance factors of the existing product, system, or new product concept.
Evaluation Scale
A technique based on the theory that there exists a natural tendency to evaluate in terms of opposites
(polar opposites).
Influencing Factors
Human Function – relationship to the user
Social Economic
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Initial Cost - Retail Cost
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Operational Cost
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Maintenance Cost
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User Proficiency
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Cultural Aesthetic
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Physical Size
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Form – Shape
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Material Finish – Color
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Environment Acceptance
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Practical Physiological
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Safety
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Ergonomics
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Environmental Impact
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Weight
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Example:
Social Economic
Cultural Aesthetic
Practical Physiological
Product Evaluation & Analysis Diagram
Product Evaluation & Analysis Diagram Example:
Semantic Differential
(you can change the wording or score)
Operational Cost
The only operational cost is the replacement of staplers. The cost is minimal.
User Proficiency
No real skill needed to use a desk stapler. The only requirement is the proper alignment of the paper to be stapled.
Physical Size
The overall size and proportion of the stapler works well with other desk accessories and performs as intended.
Material Finish – Color
The outer housing is black plastic with a slightly textured finish. The mechanical components and parts are chrome-plated metal.
Form – Shape
The form is flowing with transitional sweeps. All edge radius is .06” dia. The shape is best viewed from the side.
Environment Acceptance
The stapler visually compliments other desk tools and accessories, primarily because of color and general expectancy.
Safety
Using the stapler is typically a safe operation and is only hazardous when used in the open position.
Environmental Impact
No impact on the physical environment.
Ergonomics
The shape of the housing is effective in operational use. The form of the housing communicates where to apply pressure to advance a stapler.
Weight
Is the weight of the stapler adequate for normal use?
