Managing uncertainty: tools for change

Abstract

The author examines design methods and product features which can provide anticipation and adaptation to changes in technology or the marketplace. Methods are outlined which will allow product design to be planned and accomplished with a higher chance of success despite the inevitable disruptions to the plan which will occur. Tools that the product design can use include teams of experts who monitor the world, powerful tools to create and test alternate designs, methods for removing demotivators to purchase, techniques to incorporate design flexibility for the chooser and user, a plan to test designs early and often and track acceptability, and ongoing documentation of progress to improve design process and communication.<>