Idea generation & development
Design & Manufacture · National 5 · mrkellydt.co.uk
What you're learning in this topic
Learning intention WALT
We are learning about idea generation & development, specifically to understand:
- the key stages of brainstorming
- the key stages of morphological analysis
- why idea-generation techniques are used
- exploration, synthesis and refinement of ideas
Success criteria WILF
- I can describe the key stages of brainstorming
- I can describe the key stages of morphological analysis
- I can explain why idea-generation techniques are used
- I can explain exploration, synthesis and refinement of ideas
Why use idea-generation techniques
Generating a range of original ideas is hard. Techniques give a starting point, help overcome design block, encourage creative and diverse thinking, and give structure.
Brainstorming
- State the problem clearly from the start.
- Work alone or in a small group; consider who to invite for a range of opinions.
- Set a time limit. Record every idea, however unrealistic.
- Don't criticise ideas; build on each other's.
- Record as lists, diagrams or mind maps.
Morphological analysis
A systematic method using a matrix. The problem is broken into variables (e.g. material, number of legs, height, shape of top). Options for each are listed in columns, then one option from each column is selected, randomly or systematically, to produce different combinations.
| Legs | Material | Height | Top |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | Wood | 30 cm | Circle |
| 4 | Metal | 40 cm | Square |
| 0 | Wood & metal | 50 cm | Oval |
Useful for logical designers and during exploration, as it produces a wide breadth of combinations.
Developing ideas
- Explore: identify problems to solve and investigate alternatives for function, aesthetics, ergonomics and manufacture.
- Synthesis: combine the best elements of different ideas into a stronger one.
- Refine: add the detail needed to manufacture: final sizes, materials, construction and assembly.
- Justify decisions with annotation; use arrows, ticks and crosses so the design thinking is easy to follow.
Key terms
| Morphological analysis | A matrix of design variables and options; combine one option from each to generate many ideas. |
|---|---|
| Brainstorming rule | Record every idea and don't criticise; build on each other's ideas within a time limit. |
| Synthesis | Combining the best features of several ideas into one stronger idea. |
| Refinement | Adding detail needed to manufacture: final sizes, materials, construction and assembly. |
Quick check
1. How does morphological analysis improve the breadth of ideas?
- It creates many unique combinations of variables
- It quickly removes the weakest ideas early on
- It tests each idea with users before sketching
- It records every idea as an annotated sketch
Show answer
2. Which is a rule of brainstorming?
- Only feasible ideas are written down
- Every idea is recorded without criticism
- Ideas are judged as soon as they appear
- It must be done alone to avoid copying
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3. Combining the best features of several initial ideas is called…
- Synthesis
- Refinement
- Evaluation
- Analysis
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Exam-style questions
1. Explain one way in which brainstorming can encourage creative thoughts. (1 mark)
Show marking guidance
- Done as a group so it brings several people's ideas together
- People build on each other's ideas
- Time limit means less chance to overthink or self-censor
Printable worksheet
An I do, we do, you do worksheet for this topic, with a separate answer sheet.