100% report of 4,000 words and presentation.

To achieve a pass in this module the assessed work must demonstrate achievement of the learning outcomes as listed above.
To achieve a Distinction in this module you must complete the assessment task and demonstrate achievement of the learning outcomes [Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4]. You will have selected and thoroughly applied a range of approriate research methods to investigate your chosen topic. Your work will exhibit a very full understanding of design processes in your own area of the industry and how team work is used to manage design projects as well as making reference to methods and issues in other fields which can be applied to your own field. The presentation of your work will be exceptional with considerable attention to detail.

This module will provide you with the contextual knowledge and management skills you will need to succeed in your future design career. The module will begin with an exploration of research methods used to investigate markets and users and issues which impact upon the consumption of products and services. It will consider the total design process, from ideas to distribution and sale of products and the place of designers and others - marketing, finance and production - in this process. You will learn about the importance of team work in design projects and the underpinning theories of group dynamics and assessment of your own strengths and weaknesses as a team worker and leader. You will be introduced to the concept of innovation and its importance to company success and ways in which design and innovation can be registered and protected. The assignment for this module will provide you with an opportunity to apply the taught theory to your own area of design and you will also with the support of staff, develop your written and oral communication skills.

There will be a series of seminars which will introduce you to the theory of design processes and the links between design and other functions in the organisation. You will be given an assignment brief early in the module which will require you to research an aspect of product development which is appropriate to your own design field and will link the learning on this module with your studio work. You will be supported in your research, analysis of your findings and in writing and presenting your outcomes by joint tutorials wih studio staff and business oriented staff. You will be expected, as part of your research, to make contact with companies and individuals in your own sector of the design industry.

In practice-based modules, appropriate student supervision beyond the stated contact learning hours is determined by the number of students enrolled on the module per semester, and will be in accordance with current health and safety requirements.

Cooper R Press M (1995) The Design Agenda - A Guide to Successful Design Management, ISBN 0471941069
Topalian A (1980) The Management of Design Projects, ISBN 085227078X
Churchill G (1988) Basic Market Research, Dryden ISBN 0030072786
Lydiate L (1992) The Professional Practice of Design Consultancy, Design Council ISBN 0850723043

Students are expected to take advantage of the extensive library facilities available within the University; keeping abreast of current developments through appropriate periodicals and being aware of the work of major practitioners in their subject.

library
overhead projector
35mm slide projector
seminar room

Non-specialist computing facilities for email, internet access, word processing, database, spreadsheet and
basic presentations will be available through LLRS/ITS facilities on campus, not from within the School
itself - the exception being the School's Student Browsers based in studios which will support email and
internet access.

There are no Skills Modulettes assigned to this module.