The Project Approach in Technology
Technology
Technology is the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry.
The Project Approach
The project approach is a simple method used to address issues and find solutions to problems. It is grouped into three areas: analyze, build, and evaluate.
Analyze
- Detect the Problem or Need: Determine the problem, what is needed to solve it, and the conditions for a solution. A thorough analysis simplifies the rest of the process.
- Information and Research: Search, study, and select information that can help solve the problem in different ways. Studying similar products can provide valuable insights.
- Search for Possible Solutions: Brainstorm different options to solve the problem.
- Choose the Solution: Select the best solution based on predetermined priorities and by analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Build
- Design: Create sketches and diagrams of the chosen solution, starting with freehand and then adding details. Aesthetics play an important role in product design.
- Prepare and Plan the Work: Choose the necessary materials, techniques, and tools. Break down the work into smaller tasks and allocate time for each.
- Build the Product: Construct and finalize the product using theoretical knowledge, chosen tools, materials, and techniques. Economizing materials is essential.
Evaluate
- Check the Results: Ensure the product functions as intended, meets the desired criteria, and has a good appearance. Modify parts as needed.
- Presentation and Assessment: Present the project to others for feedback.
- Report: Document the product development process.
Design
Design is a stage in the project approach that defines the form, appearance, production cost, and distribution tasks for a product.
- Drawings: Visual representations of the product’s final look.
- List of Materials and Tools: A detailed list of required items and their sources.
- Budget: A document that evaluates the financial cost of the solution, which is crucial, especially in a business context.
Building
- Process Sheet: A document that tracks the daily progress of work stages, including completed tasks, responsible individuals, encountered difficulties, and any changes or modifications.
Evaluation
- Project Report: A comprehensive document that assesses whether the product meets expectations and initial conditions, evaluates the production process and planning, and suggests design improvements.
Report Components
- Description of the prototype
- List of modifications made
- Final drawing of the solution
- Total project cost, including modifications, and the number of hours spent
- Environmental impact of the solution
- Personal conclusions about the results
Workshop
Roles
- Coordinator
- Secretary
- Tools Manager
- Materials Manager
- Cleaning Manager
Rules of Safety
- Keep the workshop clean.
- Use a brush to clean shavings off your table.
- Keep your workstation tidy.
- Use tools properly.
- Do not eat or drink.
- Tie long hair back.
- Do not interrupt classmates while they are cutting something.
- Try to economize material.
Object Analysis
Morphological Analysis
- Shapes
- Size
- Color
- Drawing
Functional Analysis
- Intended use
- Functionality
- Potential risks
Technical Analysis
- Materials
- Parts
- Part manufacturing methods
- Part attachment methods
- Environmental risks
Economic Analysis
- Sales units (units, grams, liters, etc.)
- Cheapest material
- Price
Social Analysis
- Social impact
- Environmental impact
Aesthetic Analysis
- Colors (shiny, matte, etc.)
- Visual appeal
- Tactile feel
- Softness
Historical Analysis
(Optional)
Price
Price is a crucial element in product sales. It is related to production costs but is also part of a company’s business strategy.
When setting a price, consider the desired profit margin, prices of similar products, and consumer sensitivity.
Marginal Benefits
Marginal benefits are the maximum amount a consumer will pay for an additional good or service.
Low prices can encourage consumers to buy, but excessively low prices can raise concerns about quality.
Common Distribution Channels
- Wholesale: The product is supplied to retailers and large customers.
- Retail Sale: The product is offered directly to the end user.
- Online Sale: The product is distributed through websites.
Promotion Channels
- Advertising Campaigns: Utilize TV, newspapers, and digital media.
Advertising can sometimes create non-existent needs. Staple products generally don’t require promotion.
Obsolescence
Products become obsolete when they fall into disuse due to the emergence of new technologies with superior functionality.
Types of Obsolescence
- Technological Obsolescence: Occurs when a new product replaces an older one.
- Functional Obsolescence: The reduction of object parts that are no longer necessary and have become outdated.
- Legal Obsolescence: Laws prohibit the use of certain assets unless specific changes or renewals are made due to potential dangers.
- Aesthetic Obsolescence: Owners revamp products that have gone out of style to keep up with current trends.
- Economic Obsolescence: Refers to the loss of value of a property due to external factors.
- Planned Obsolescence: A strategy to ensure that a product becomes outdated within a specific timeframe, driving consumer demand for replacements.