Design Methodology in Practice

Abstract

Design methodology is a very powerful tool in practice, although not in the format in which it is presented either in literature in general or in the form in which it is taught in engineering schools. The strength of design methodology lies with the many tools into which it can be shaped. Together, these tools make up a complex pattern which can be offered to industry. Based on the activities of the consultancy company the Institute for Product Development (IPU) in Danish industry, we are able to paint a pattern of tools based on the so-called Workshop Design-Konstruktion school founded by V. Hubka. In Denmark, this particular school has been developed into a comprehensive set of models, methods and procedures which are widely recognized. On this basis, it is now possible to describe the experience from practice and make a recommendation as to a result-oriented deployment of design methodology.