1.

knowledge and understanding about design theory and design processes in a range of contexts

H1.1 critically analyses the factors affecting design and the development and success of design projects
factors affecting designing and producing, including: (Queens Only Need A Sweet WAFFLE
appropriateness of the design solution
-​ A design should be a good response to a problem or need.
-​ It should be practical, solve the issue effectively, and suit the target audience.
→ For example, a toy designed for preschoolers should be durable, non-toxic, lightweight, and safe, with no
sharp edges.
needs
-​ Successful designs meet a real need or solve a problem for the user.
-​ A designer must research whether their product is truly useful.
→ For example, smartphones evolved because people needed a way to communicate, access information, and
use multiple functions in one device.
function
-​ A product must do what it was designed to do.
→ For example, a dishwasher’s primary function is to clean dishes, but extra features like water efficiency,
noise reduction, and different washing modes make it more appealing to buyers.
A product that does not work properly will fail, even if it looks good.
Aesthetics
-​ The way a product looks is important because people are more likely to buy something that is visually
appealing.
→ for example A chair, for instance, must be comfortable (function) but also have a design that fits modern
home décor (aesthetics).
If two products do the same job, the one with a more attractive design will often be chosen.
finance
-​ The cost of designing and producing a product affects its development.
-​ If a company does not have enough money, they may have to cut corners on materials or production, reducing
quality.
→ For example, some small tech startups struggle to fund product development and use crowdfunding sites like
Kickstarter to raise money.
ergonomics
-​ A product should be comfortable and easy to use (how it specifically caters to a person)
→For example, office chairs are designed with ergonomic features such as lumbar support, adjustable height,
and armrests to prevent back pain.
If a product is difficult or uncomfortable to use, people may avoid it.
work health and safety
-​ WHS ensures safety for workers and users.
-​ In a workshop, students must wear protective goggles and follow safety rules when using tools.
-​ Similarly, manufacturers must ensure their workers have a safe environment.
→ For example, faulty electrical appliances can cause injuries, so they must pass strict safety testing before
being sold.
quality
-​ Quality refers to how well a product is made.
→ For example A high-quality smartphone will have a durable screen, a long battery life, and reliable software.
-​ Consumers are often willing to pay more for a product if they trust its quality, as seen with brands like Apple and
Samsung.
short-term and long-term environmental consequences
-​ Designers must think about how their product impacts the environment.
→ for example A plastic water bottle is convenient in the short term, but in the long term, it contributes to
pollution. More sustainable designs, like reusable stainless steel bottles, help reduce waste.
Obsolescence
 -​ Obsolescence is when a product is no longer useful or desirable.
→ for example Some products, like smartphones, are designed to become outdated quickly, forcing people to
buy new ones. On the other hand, high-quality furniture or classic cars are designed to last for decades.
life cycle analysis
-​ LCA looks at a product’s impact from raw material extraction to disposal.
→ for example A wooden table may seem eco-friendly, but if the wood is sourced from illegal logging, its
environmental impact is high.
-​ Designers should choose sustainable materials and production methods to reduce harm
examples of success and failure in design
-​ Success: The iPhone revolutionized mobile phones by combining calling, internet browsing, and apps into one
sleek device, making it a global success.
-​ Failure: The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 was recalled because its batteries overheated and caught fire. Poor
safety testing and rushed production led to its failure
H1.2 relates the practices and processes of designers and producers to the major design project
the work of designers
1.​ design practice
-​ Design is a problem-solving and project management process.
-​ All designers follow a similar set of steps known as the design process, regardless of their field of expertise or
the tools, materials and techniques they may use.
-​ initial contact with client, analysing the need & working through to a final product, system or environment
2.​ processes used by designers
1. Analysis: design brief, identification of the need or opportunity
2. Investigation: initial research, idea generation, specifications & limitations.
3. Ideas and possible solutions: Development of Ideas or solutions to the problem.
4. Research and testing: primary (testing), secondary
5. Refine ideas: possible solutions/concepts
6. Realisation: Production of the final design, modifications in response to research and testing.
7. Evaluate: Ongoing and final evaluation through design and construction, checking outcome against identified need
or opportunity to determine level of success.

2. knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the interrelationship of design, technology, society and the
environment

H2.1 explains the influence of trends in society on design and production

trends in designing and producing, including those which are influenced by (PEEGS):
1.​ Political: Government laws and agencies protect consumers and manufacturers (e.g., fair pricing and safe
products).
For example
-​ Free Trade Agreements allow products to be sold internationally.
-​ ACCC promotes fair trading and protects consumers.
-​ IP Australia manages rights like patents and trademarks.
2.​ Economic: The state of the economy; if it is in a boom or recession will impact sales on the design and
production.
For example
-​ Companies like Apple release products during economic booms to maximize sales.
3.​ Environmental: Every product or system impacts the environment during its life cycle. Therefore designers must
think about short-term and long-term environmental effects. Designers should use sustainable materials
(renewable or recyclable) to minimize this harm.
Examples of environmental soluions:
-​ Using recycled materials (e.g., Tokyo 2020 medals made from old electronics).
-​ Creating biodegradable items (e.g., a coffee cup with seeds that can grow plants).
 4.​ Global: The impact of globalisatikon through technology, making trade, travel, and communication faster and
easier
5.​ Social: Designers must consider:
-​ Multiculturalism: Products should respect cultural needs (e.g., multilingual instructions).
-​ Social class: Designs should be affordable and practical for all.
-​ Egalitarianism: Equal rights for all users.
-​ Social conscience: People want products that support good causes.
discuss the issues arising from trends in design and technological activity historical and cultural influences on
designing and producing, including:
1.​ Changing social strends
→ Lifestyles have shifted, creating new design opportunities (e.g., Zoom for remote work).
→ Designers adapt to family structures and emerging technologies.

2.​ Cultural diversity

→ Immigration has introduced new foods, fashion, and customs to Australia.
→ Designers celebrate and respect cultural differences (e.g., halal food at McDonald’s).

3.​ The changing nature of work’

→

4.​ Technological change

→

H2.2 evaluates the impact of design and innovation on society and the environment
ethical and environmental issues:
1.​ ethical and environmental considerations for designers and society
→ Global Warming: Greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels and land clearing are raising Earth's temperature.
Designers should help reduce emissions.
→ Pollution: Includes water, soil, air, and noise pollution. For example, plastics in landfills don’t break down easily, and
noisy manufacturing processes require safety measures and noise control.
2.​ sustainable technologies
Sustainable designs focus on social, economic, and environmental benefits.
Examples:
→ Solar Power: Converts sunlight into electricity with minimal environmental impact.
→ Biofuel: A renewable energy source used in cars, causing less pollution than petrol.
→ Wind Energy: Wind turbines convert wind into electricity.
→ Hydroelectricity: Uses flowing water to generate electricity without greenhouse gas emissions.
3.​ protection of intellectual property
Organisations that protect the safety and rights of designers include IP Australia, The Trade Practices Act, Workers
compensation, and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). The following are some of the
systems in place for protection of designers’ intellectual property rights:
→ Patents: Protect inventions, allowing owners to earn money from their ideas.
→ Copyright: Protects original creative works like art, music, and literature.
→ Trademarks: Legally protect a brand, allowing its use, sale, or licensing in Australia.
4.​ rights and responsibilities of the designer
Designers have legal and ethical responsibilities, including:
→ Meeting deadlines, staying within budgets, and ensuring quality.
→ Pricing goods fairly and delivering good quality.
→ Avoiding plagiarism and conflicts of interest while keeping client information private.
→ Considering social, cultural, and environmental impacts in their designs.
5.​ impact on Australian society
Designers should assess their products to ensure a positive impact on society.
→ Life Cycle Analysis (LCA): Tracks a product's impact from raw material extraction to disposal, helping reduce
negative effects.

3. creativity and an understanding of innovation and entrepreneurial activity in a range of contexts

H3.1 analyses the factors that influence innovation and the success of innovation
factors that impact on success of innovation including
1.​ Timing
→ timing plays a key role in a products success, as launching at the right moment can make or break how
successful the innovation is
→ in order to stimulate demand for a new product, manufacturers and marketers will use effective marketing (
cleverly marketing an innovation to ensure demand is created)
→ demand can also be created through consumer emand for a product as a result of trends (innovators will
often respond to trends in order to ensure success)
2.​ Available and emerging technologies
New products are created for two main reasons
→ market pull: customer demand
→ technology push: new technology enabling innovation
Technology can be grouped into three types
→ critical technologies: used to make products
→ enabling technologies: needed to use critical technologies (supports critical technology)
→ strategic technologies: new and important, shaping future innnovations
3.​ Historical and cultural, political, economic, and legal factors
→ historical and cultural: innovators must consider historical and cultural values of their target market, working
with social and environmental groups to ensure their products meet modern ethical standards
→ political factors: governments influence innovation through trade policies, funding and support for sustainable
practices to esnure environmntal concern
→ economic factors: a strong economy boosts innovation as consumers are willing to spend on new ideas but
they demand high quality. In weak economy, innovation focuses on creating more efficient products
→ legal factors: law groups like the ACCC impact product development due to setting essential product
standards to ensure consumers are informed which industries must follow
4.​ marketing
A product's marketing strategies including market size, consumer demand, and promotion affect success. It
ensures the product meets customer needs, stands out from competitors and is well advertised.
The key marketing elements include
→ people, product, price, promotion, packaging

the role of a variety of agencies that may impact upon the success of innovation
-​ The Australian Government (CSIRO): organisation provided by the government that funds STEM initiatives,
research and investigations that will positively impact society and humanity. CSIRO's mission is to create
benefits for Australia through science and innovation by supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs with
big ideas.

entrepreneurial activity
→ nature of entrepreneurial activity
Definition:
Concerned with the creation, evaluation and exploitation of ideas – making good ideas into a successful product,
system or Environment by recognising ideas that have the potential for commercial success
What it involves:
Risk taking is involved in entrepreneurial activity, including understanding factors that impact on the success or failure
of businesses and having the ability to manage these factors to achieve a position of advantage/ remain relevant.
→ role in design and technological activity
-​ Role is for creating innovative products and services that meet customer needs and stand out in the market.
used to improve efficiency, personalize customer experiences, and create new opportunities for growth.
→ agencies which influence entrepreneurial activity
Government Agencies:
-​ Governments play a vital role by providing funding, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks that support
entrepreneurship. They can also offer training, mentorship, and access to resources that help startups succeed.
Industry Associations:
-​ provide entrepreneurs with valuable insights and networking opportunities within the business industry,
advocating for their innovations
Venture Capital and Angel Investors:
-​ provide funds to early-stage companies/ entrepreneurs, accelerating their growth and development.
→ management and entrepreneurial activity
Strategic Planning:
-​ Effective management involves developing a clear business plan, setting achievable goals, and identifying
opportunities for growth.
Operational Efficiency:
-​ Streamlining processes, optimizing resource allocation, and managing finances effectively are crucial for
sustainable operations.
Team Building and Leadership:
-​ Entrepreneurs need to build strong teams, foster collaboration, and inspire their employees to achieve common
goals.
Adaptability and Resilience:
-​ The ability to adapt to changing market conditions, overcome challenges, and learn from mistakes is essential
for long-term success.
→ legal and ethical issues
Entrepreneurs would ensure that their idea is legally protected, and all trading and production activities meet required
standards. (especially if becoming a business)
Intellectual Property:
-​ Protecting trademarks, patents, and copyrights is essential for safeguarding unique products and innovations.
Contract Law:
-​ Understanding and adhering to contract law is crucial for establishing agreements with suppliers, customers,
and partners.
Employment Law:
-​ Entrepreneurs need to comply with labor laws regarding hiring, wages, working conditions, and termination of
employment.
Data Protection:
-​ Complying with data privacy regulations, such as GDPR, is crucial for protecting customer information and
avoiding legal penalties.
Ethical Considerations:
 -​ Entrepreneurs must operate with integrity, transparency, and social responsibility, considering the impact of their
business on stakeholders and the environment.
H3.2 uses creative and innovative approaches in designing and producing
creativity and innovative design practice
→ processes undertaken to develop innovations
Two developmental process include:
-​ Intuitive design: relating to the designer’s personal perception and feedback
-​ Systematic design: more deliberate and methodical
→ success of innovation
In order to ensure the success of an innovation:
-​ Monitoring the quality of the final product through quality control during production
-​ Ensure effort and risk taking were implemented in the creation of the innovation
-​ Elements of the innovation have been managed throughout the entirety of the design process
-​ Designer seeks out other sources if innovation through research, testing anf experimenting (helps give a
designer ideas on what their innovation should build upon)
-​ A designer must integrate all elements of innovation, this includes a collaborative approach between
researchers, designers, manufacturers and marketers contributing to the success of a product
→ adaptation and development of ideas
-​ Strategies such as sketching and brainstorming can be employed to assist in the development of designs
→ responding to motivational stimuli
-​ Designers may be inspired by an event, a personal experience, their environment, a need, nature, an existing
product or the urge to create
→ creative thinking
-​ It is important to demonstrate creativity in the development of a PSE

4. skills in the application of design processes to design, produce and evaluate quality design projects that satisfy
identified needs and opportunities

H4.1 identifies a need or opportunity and researches and explores ideas for design development and
production of the major design project
needs analysis
A needs analysis ensures that the product being developed is in direct response to what the target market desires.
Conducting a needs analysis can help you to find a niche or gap in the marketplace and to learn more about what your
intended project must be able to do to meet the specific needs and wants of your target market.
-​ researching and developing ideas
Look for everyday problems that consumers encounter, flaws in existing products and opportunities that are waiting to
be explored. Not thinking inside of a box otherwise the designer will be restricted to possible design innovations.
-​ identifying opportunities
When identifying a need, be aware of the opportunities that may result from it
-​ For example: The opportunity may result in financial profit for the designer, producing a product that will meet
consumers needs more effectively than others on the market.
-​ formulating an individual's design proposal
Broadly outlines what you aim to design and construct and clearly identifies the target market at which the project is
aimed (remembering that at this point the designer should not know exactly how their innovation will turn out, instead
they should keep their options open and allow your research and experimentation to guide many of these decisions.)

research and methods of experimentation to generate ideas

Research and experimentation will occur throughout the design and development of the MDP. they must be selective,
only conducting what is relevant and appropriate to the successful development of the MDP. research allows designers
to draw on the experience and knowledge of others to help in the production of an MDP
Research can be obtained through a variety of sources for example:
-​ The internet: Sources must be checked for authenticity and reliability, and information should never be obtained
from only one site; that is, without supporting information from other sources.
Types of research
Primary research:
-​ collecting first hand evidence through interacting with potential consumers, existing products. Manufacturers
and suppliers.
-​ This could include, identifying the target market through observation or survey, looking at existing products that
serve a similar purpose and conducting a gap analysis to identify areas for improvement
Secondary research
-​ Expanding on one's own design and innovation through the fundings of others in established information and
knowledge
-​ Also involves responding to the findings of research and testing and applying them to the MDP
-​ This could include research on the internet, statistical data such as a census to justify design decisions, using
physical books, arcticles and journals for current and old information
H4.2 selects and uses resources responsibly and safely to realise a quality major design project
factors to be considered when selecting resources including:
-​ Safety: Work Health and Safety Act 2011 makes designers more responsible for the products, systems and
environments they create. Potentially dangerous elements such as toxic paints, should be given consideration,
and all materials and parts should be assessed for safety. Safe operating procedures for equipment and
materials must be adhered to. PPE must be worn such as safety glasses, overalls, ear muffs, hard hat, gloves,
dust mask, covered footwear.
-​ ethical issues: Ethics refers to the way people behave, based on a set of values or principles. When collecting
resources designers must behave ethically. With their decisions in line with societally acceptable behaviours
such as whether to use imported or local material, or if it fits into the current cultural and social context
-​ environmental issues: Materials that are known to be detrimental to the environment should be avoided.
Materials used in design must be justified. A life-cycle analysis is the examination of the environmental impact
of a product from cradle to grave – from raw materials to use to eventual disposal.

H4.3 evaluates the processes undertaken and the impacts of the major design project
project evaluation
→ ongoing evaluation
Ensures the designer stays on track and produces the best possible outcome to meet the need or opportunity
identified. By documenting ongoing evaluation it allows for reflection on what has happened and the opportunity to plan
for what is yet to come. The ongoing evaluation includes justifying why decisions about ideas, materialism tools and
techniques were made and why things were changed.
→ criteria to evaluate success
Recognises and distuguishes the functional and aesthetic criteria to an MDP. By identifying both, it sets the designer a
goal to ensure the design stays on track in which the final design must reflect
→ analysing criteria for evaluation
Evaluating whether the design and project ended up meeting the criteria including environmental, functional, aesthetic,
needs of the design and fills the design brief.
→ implementation of design solutions
Aim is to design and construct a project in response to an identified problem or opportunity, utilising the most
appropriate technology by remaining open-minded, testing possible solutions and implementing best choices.

the impact of the major design project

→ on the individual
Consider the impact the final design has had on the individual consumer/ end-user. The impact on you, the designer,
should also be examined.
→ on society
Considering the impact/influence the final design has had on aspects of society including: cultural backgrounds,
religious beliefs, socio-economic factors, education and occupational experiences
→ on the environment (local and global)
Consider where all raw materials of the innovation came from, how it was processed and transported to the market,
how manufacturers transformed these materials into saleable goods, and in the end how it all impacted the
environment during the products usage and how the product was disposed of once no longer useful. (lifecycle analysis)
→ in relation to potential social or environmental costs or benefits
 -​ Consider what you have done and could've done better.

5. skills in research, communication and management in design and production

H5.1 manages the development of a quality major design project

project management
→ methods of managing action
Methods include planning, organising, directing and controlling through ideas generation and collaboration with others
to produce a design. Also organise finances, resources to manage the overall conduction of design creation
→ time and finance appropriate to the nature of individual design projects
Time and action plans help plan when designers will get something done and create a routine for the design. FInance
plan helps to allocate funds to sections of the design and find where you will gain funding for the project and ensure the
project is affordable
→ documentation procedures for developing management plans
Includes ongoing evaluations to track your progress in the design and production.

H5.2 selects and uses appropriate research methods and communication techniques
research methods
→ data collection
-​ When collecting data, research must be based on society and the current market to identify a market
opportunity and where areas of innovation are.
-​ When collecting data sustainable practices must be considered to ensure ethicallity.
-​ When collecting data, primary and secondary sources can be used, for instance using internet and media sites,
and interviews and questionnaires.
→ analysis
-​ Once you have collected your data you will need to collate it/put it together. Then show how the data impacted
the success of your innovation and how it relates.
→ interpretation and application of conclusions
-​ This is done to demonstrate the designers thorough research into the topic the innovation is based on and their
ability to interpret findings and justify conclusions
-​ If a thorough analysis of your research, the designer should be able to clearly justify decisions referring to both
positive and negative aspects of design and decisions made (these ideas should be presented in a clear way to
easily interpret)
communication
→ presenting information
-​ Data and information should be clearly presented in tables, diagrams etc.
-​ This allows for others to easily interpret the data and information to understand the relevance to the final
design.
→ visualising solutions
-​ various solutions available should be explored and ideas on how they helped in the development of the design
should be included in the MDP.
-​ Designers should also propose how the design has created a solution and is innovative.
→ communication and presentation methods appropriate to the target market
-​ Present data and information in a way that highlights the appropriateness and relation to the target market.
Show how the design provides a solution to the target market and is innovative/successful.
-​ Must also be displayed to the examiner to understand easily.

6. knowledge and understanding about current and emerging technologies in a variety of settings

H6.1 justifies technological activities undertaken in the major design project through the study of industrial
and commercial practices
practices in industrial and commercial settings as they relate to the major design project including:
→ safe work practices using selected resources
-​ All designers must abide by the WHS Act 2011. This can be done by ensuring safe practices such as using
 PPE. By following these rules and regulations, it will lower the risk of injuries and illnesses for both the designer
and others around
-​ WHS laws are policed by WorkCover NSW. WorkCover responds to complaints, investigates accidents and
issues orders for workplace repair or shutdown when dangerous, and issues fines for breaches of the WHS act
-​ Risk assessment and hazard reduction: A hazard is anything that could potentially cause harm or loss. It is a
legal requirement for employers to identify hazards, assess risks and eliminate or control risks to health and
safety at work. (if a hazard is found a risk assessment must be conducted)
→ production techniques
-​ Justifing the production techniques used and more specifically why they were used. What function they served
in creating the design.
→ selection of processes appropriate to an identified need or opportunity
-​ selection of processes used must be appropriate and suitable to the need or opportunity. The correct materials
must be used to relate to the need
-​ for example, a reusable cup must use sustainable practices in production otherwise it will not be sustainable
and not consider the purpose of the design
→ collaborative designing and design teams
-​ A good and innovative designer works collaboratively with others and takes advantage of the resources
available to them to create a successful design.
-​ This can be through the help of peers or colleagues etc which allows for more innovative ideas and solutions to
the design.

H6.2 critically assesses the emergence and impact of new technologies, and the factors affecting their
development
emerging technologies
-​ factors affecting their development
→ the societal shift/move to sustainability
-​ new systems for recycling, solar power and materials to be more sustaibanle
-​ Global warming inspiring development of new technologies that reduce carbon emissions
→ financial factors
-​ Government financial assistance has supported the development of many of these techs
-​ Financial factors including robotics, management software and online learning have been developed to provide
an economic advantage to the industry
→ Communication advancements
-​ Electronic communication has led to developments in communication systems for online shopping
-​ Designers must be aware of and meet global consumer preferences and competition, expanded communication
has caused this to no longer just be on a national scale
criteria for evaluation
→ To check if the goal was achieved
-​ impact on society and the environment
→ Ecological Implications:
-​ Emerging technologies can harm or help the environment.
-​ Negative impacts: High energy usage and waste during the development stage can strain natural resources.
-​ Positive impacts: Focus on eco-friendly advancements (e.g., renewable energy, biodegradable materials)
reduces the environmental footprint.
-​ Designers must prioritize sustainable practices to minimize ecological damage.
→ Economic Implications:
-​ Development and implementation of emerging technologies require significant investment.
-​ Short-term costs: Expensive research and testing phases.
-​ Long-term benefits: Can create new industries, increase productivity, and drive economic growth (e.g., AI and
automation).
-​ Countries and companies that adopt new technologies early gain competitive advantages.
→ Social Implications:
 -​ Emerging technologies change how people live and interact.
-​ Positive impacts: Easier communication (e.g., smartphones, social media), improved healthcare, and enhanced
education opportunities.
-​ Challenges: Job displacement due to automation and inequality in access to new technologies.
→ Ethical Implications:
-​ Technologies like AI raise concerns about data privacy, surveillance, and bias.
-​ Ethical dilemmas arise when innovations outpace regulations (e.g., gene editing, self-driving cars).
-​ Designers must consider societal values and ensure new technologies do not exploit or harm people.
→ Legal Implications:
-​ Intellectual property laws are crucial to protect the rights of innovators.
-​ Legal frameworks often lag behind technological advancements, causing uncertainty (e.g., drone usage or
cryptocurrency regulations).
Governments play a key role in setting safety standards and ensuring fair use of emerging technologies.
-​ impact on innovation.
1: Driving New Industries:
-​ Emerging technologies often spark the creation of entirely new sectors. For instance, the development of the
internet led to e-commerce, social media, and digital marketing.
2: Accelerating the Innovation Process:
-​ Technologies like AI and 3D printing allow designers to prototype and develop products faster, reducing
time-to-market.
-​ Advanced materials and tools improve product functionality and durability.
3: Raising Consumer Expectations:
-​ As technology improves, consumers expect more sophisticated, efficient, and environmentally friendly
products. This pushes designers to continuously innovate.
4: Cross-disciplinary Collaboration:
-​ Emerging technologies often require the blending of different fields (e.g., robotics combines engineering,
programming, and AI). Collaboration across disciplines fuels further innovation.
5: Inspiring Creativity:
-​ New technologies provide tools that were once unimaginable, enabling creators to explore unique ideas (e.g.,
virtual reality for immersive art and gaming).