3rd. semester
Design methodology

The drafting module teaches the methods through which industrial designers develop an idea. Technically, systematically and formally, a draft must be correctly executed. This entails the documentation, communication and presentation of complex structures, as well as cooperation with all the disciplines connected with the product development process. It also teaches self-organization and time manage-ment.

The demands placed on drafting competence increase in complexity as the degree program progresses.

The module applies design methodology to the problem of drafting, which it defines and analyzes. It addresses the draft design of a prod-uct or system, covering all the relevant process steps from statement of the problem or task, through research and concept development, to the design and its optimization. Drafting also includes the presentation of detailed solutions and preparation of construction plans via CAD, 3D modeling and prototyping.

Module Director
Prof. Gert Trauernicht

Design methodology lays the foundation for comprehensive process competencies.

The whole spectrum of design methodology is acquired step by step in the form of spontaneous drafting at increasing levels of complexity. The results are presented and discussed in seminars, and a series of practical exercises in drafting conveys the necessary presentation techniques.

The exercises are oriented to the design drafting process. As well as communicating theoretical background knowledge and the relevant terminology for the individual project phases, the module places special emphasis on practical exercises.

Students learn in this module

• to develop a methodical procedure for drafting
• to analyze and structure complex interrelated topics
• to develop definitions of goals, targets and problems
• to master various ways of developing ideas
• multimedia documentation and presentation skills

Courses

• Spontaneous drafting
• Fundamentals of computer-aided design/CAD-1
• Presentation techniques
• Concept presentation
• Product photography
• Manufacturing technology

Module director
Prof. Gert Trauernicht

The module focuses on the socio-economic context in which design and design decisions take place. Designers work at the interface be-tween the interests of the user (design contexts) and those of the producer (design strategy and product management). The designer's awareness of his/her own role in its scope and reach is essential for realistic strategic planning.

Design contexts: observation of everyday behaviors in an intercultural context; systematic aspects of observation and evaluation; inter-pretation of results of observation; development of new concepts.

Design strategy and product management: fundamentals of design management; operational and strategic design management; relation between corporate strategy and design strategy.

Courses

• Design contexts
• Design strategy and product management

Module Director
n.n.

The goal of this module is to improve both independent working ability and team skills. The module fosters communicative, organizational and leadership competencies, as well as personal development and social skills.
A social, infrastructural or PR project related to the BA program, developed and realized in small groups. The content, management and results of the project are discussed with the member of faculty directing the group and form the basis for its evaluation.

Courses

• Planning an initiative
• Initiative project

Module Director
n.n.