Impact of Culture and Society on Product Design
This page delves deeper into the influence of culture and society on Design and Technology GCSE topics, particularly focusing on how cultural factors shape product development and acceptance.
The case study of the £5 note controversy in the UK is explored in detail. In 2016, it was revealed that the new polymer Bank of England £5 note contained tallow, an animal fat-based substance. This discovery upset various communities, including Hindus, Sikhs, vegans, and vegetarians, who avoid using animal products in their daily lives.
Quote: "The revelation in 2016 that the new polymer Bank of England £5 note contained tallow, an animal fat-based substance, upset a number of communities."
The controversy led to a significant public response:
- An official petition gathered over 100,000 signatures in just two days.
- Some establishments refused to accept the notes as payment.
- A café owner expressed repulsion at the idea of the note containing tallow, believing her customers supported this view.
Highlight: This case study demonstrates how overlooking cultural and religious considerations in product design can lead to widespread controversy and rejection of even essential items like currency.
The page also discusses the concept of fashion and trends in product design. Designers must ensure their products align with the current fashion and trends of the target market area. This consideration is crucial in Product Design GCSE studies.
Product Evolution is introduced as a key concept, explaining how products change over time due to:
- Market Pull
- Technology Push
- Fashion and Trends
Definition: Product Evolution refers to the changes and improvements made to products over time, driven by market demands, technological advancements, and changing fashion trends.
The page provides visual examples of product evolution, including:
- The evolution of gaming controllers from the Sega Saturn to the Xbox 360
- The development of the Spitfire aircraft
- The progression from the original Mini Cooper to newer models
Example: The evolution of gaming controllers showcases how ergonomics, functionality, and aesthetics have changed over time to meet user needs and technological capabilities.
Lastly, the concept of Iconic Designs is introduced. These are products considered timeless due to their innovative nature, industry-changing impact, and frequent imitation.
Vocabulary: Iconic Designs are products that have stood the test of time due to their innovative features, industry influence, and enduring popularity.
Examples of iconic designs mentioned include the iPod, iPhone, Angle-Poise Lamp, Swiss Army Knife, Converse Shoes, Levi's Jeans, and the Classic Mini Cooper.