← Product Design and Technologies syllabus

EnglandProduct Design and Technologies

Ergonomics and human factors

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How do aesthetics and form shape how a product looks, feels and sells?

Aesthetics and the elements and principles of design (form, colour, texture, proportion, balance, symmetry, line and rhythm), how aesthetics affect a product's appeal and value, the relationship between aesthetics, branding and styling, the influence of fashion and culture on form, and how designers control the look and feel of a product.
A focused answer to the Edexcel 9DT0 content on aesthetics and form, covering the elements and principles of design (form, colour, texture, proportion, balance, symmetry), how aesthetics affect appeal and value, branding and styling, and the influence of fashion and culture.
12 min answer →

How is anthropometric data used with percentiles to size products for people?

Anthropometric data (measurements of the human body), the use of percentiles and percentile ranges, primary and secondary data sources, how to choose the appropriate percentile and design limits (design for the 5th to 95th percentile, design for the extreme, design for adjustability or the average), and applying anthropometric data to set product dimensions.
A focused answer to the Edexcel 9DT0 content on anthropometric data and percentiles, covering body measurements, percentile ranges, choosing design limits (5th to 95th, extreme, adjustable or average), and applying anthropometric data to set product dimensions.
13 min answer →

What is ergonomics, and how does it make products comfortable, safe and easy to use?

Ergonomics as the fit between a product and the user, covering physical ergonomics (comfort, posture, effort, reach), the human senses and feedback, controls and displays, the role of anthropometric data in ergonomic design, and how good ergonomics improves comfort, safety, efficiency and usability.
A focused answer to the Edexcel 9DT0 content on ergonomics and usability, covering the fit between product and user, comfort, posture and effort, the human senses and feedback, controls and displays, and how good ergonomics improves safety and efficiency.
13 min answer →

How do inclusive and user-centred design make products work for the widest range of people?

Inclusive design and user-centred design (UCD), designing for diversity of age, size and ability, the difference between inclusive design and specialist or assistive design, user research and involving users throughout the process, and how considering a wide range of users improves products and widens the market.
A focused answer to the Edexcel 9DT0 content on inclusive design and user-centred design, covering designing for diversity of age, size and ability, inclusive versus specialist design, involving users through research, and how this widens the market.
13 min answer →