Lesson 4: Investigating the problems

Introduction
Sometimes problems could be solved 'straight out from your head' using your own knowledge, experience and imagination. However, to obtain the best possible solution, you will almost certainly need to gain some new knowledge and information. This will require detailed research. You have to think of the best information which will produce the best results. You also have to think of where to research and what tools to use. Another word for investigation is research.

Lesson Content
In Design and Graphic Communication, you are producing something either for sale or for yourself. This object is to solve a problem you have identified and analysed. You could continue with the topic identified earlier or choose an entirely different one. It is now appropriate that you research into the most appropriate materials to use, the constructional techniques to adopt, the best appearance to give it an aesthetic appeal and stability. You should also think of how to make the object functional. This is not all. You should think of how the waste produced the most appropriate way of disposing of the wast materials. These key elements are represented on a web diagram in figure 1. You could also illustrate it in a flow chart. effect you're to rely on the items under the analysis to carry out your investigation.

Take the various elements as done for lesson two and investigate into each of them.

Material
Taking the questions posed at the analysis stage in lesson two, you research into the most appropriate materials that could be used. You think of materials such as wood, plastics, metals, ceramics and others. It may be a waste of time researching into all these hence you research into existing materials used for similar products.

Research into the properties that the material to be used should possess. For instance should it tough, flexible, light in weight? Think also about the colour. If you're manufacturing for some consumers, use investigative tools such as questionnaires, interviews or observation to seek their tase especially of colour.

You should extend your research by reading textbooks, catalogues, magazines to make your choice of materials reliable. You should also visit factories, shops and markets to see what materials have been used in making similar products. Always consider the safety aspect. Also remember to aim at KEEPING IT SIMPLE and SHINY!(KISS)

Repeat the research for the other elements.

Mdanso 17:16, 26 February 2007 (CET)

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