An important element to any design project is research. Not just research in to the problem, but research into ensuring that it is, in fact, a problem.
One of the first steps we took in this project was to visit mechanics, ask them about the problems they faced every day, and to ensure they lighting was as big of a problem as we imagined.
Luckily for us, and unluckily for them, it was. To quote one mechanic:
We believe that research should be conducted in unison with concept ideation. This has the benefit of allowing new ideas to flow from the mind, unconstrained to the 'norms' of existing products, while still ultimately being drawn into reality and shaped from research. With that in mind, we researched mechanics and their work habits, the environments in which they work, and also what goes in to creating usable light.
In those times when the designers behind a project start to lose focus, having a defined "Criteria for Success" can help.
Our criteria for success focuses on ensuring our product meets the needs of both professional and hobbyist mechanics by being practical in operation, adaptable to any likely situation, and durable over prolonged periods of time.
