Research: Pupils sometimes make the mistake of obtaining research that has no relationship to their project. To be successful in this area you need to make all research relevant, is there any point knowing the molecular structure of steel if you have not even considered that as a material. On the other hand collecting information on similar products to the one you will produce is valuable if used correctly.

There are many sources available for research and you will be expected to use a range of these. Research can be found:

	From the internet (such as this site)
	On CD ROMs
	In libraries (Text books, journals etc)
	In shops, also their catalogues and brochures.
	Users of similar products I.e. market research.
	By producing models.

These are just a few, remember to identify all sources of research, if it is a book state the  Author, Year of the book, Title and the page numbers where information was gained. If a website the website address (URL).


When analysing your research make sure you write down what you have learned from the research, even if it is just stating something you already knew. From your research you will be able to produce an Initial specification.


Some of the research that will be required for successful project completion is listed:

	User needs, what does the user want? What ergonomic or anthropometric data will I need? Use graphs and summarise your findings [Carr P (2000 p3)]. Extra help can be found using the Text Design and Make it Resistant Materials p133.
	Existing products, look at existing to help inspire you design yours.
	Materials, availability, characteristics and cost.
	Manufacturing techniques, how would you make it (one off prototype), batch produce and mass produce your product?
	Safety and others research items that you should have identified  in your ISR.

Initial Specification