1. Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification
Aesthetics
Will the product look attractive?
Will it make good use of colour and texture?
Will it have a quality finish?
Where will the designer get his or her inspiration?
Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification

2. Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification
Cost
What is the estimated cost of production and how much will you sell it for?
Will the product be affordable?
Will it seem good value for money?
Will the price reflect any social or moral considerations (e.g. Fair Trade, environmental damage caused)?
Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification

3. Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification
Client
Who will the product be designed for?
How and where will they use it? What impact will it have on the customer’s quality of life?
Will it make a part of their life easier?
How could the product be promoted to attract its customer?
Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification

4. Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification
Environment
What will be the product’s impact on the environment?
Think about its manufacture, general use, distribution and final disposal when it is no longer needed.
Will it use rechargeable batteries
Can it be recycled?
Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification

5. Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification
Safety
How will the designer considered safety issues when designing the product?
Think about the way the product is used and how different parts have been joined together.
Will the product meet recognised safety standards?
Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification

6. Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification
Size
Will the product be comfortable to use?
Will the proportions be appropriate for its use?
To what extent will you consider human factors (ergonomics) in the product’s design?
Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification

7. Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification
Function
How will the product work?
What are the input process and output components of the product?
How easy will it be to use?
Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification

8. Materials and Manufacturing
What will the product be made from?
Would another type of material work better?
What impact will your choice of material have on the environment?
How will the scale of production affect the your choice of material and manufacturing processes?
Ask yourself these questions when writing a specification