46 / 136
What kind of person do I need to be?
You should have an interest in subjects such as ar t, design and
technology, maths and science. Your success in product design
will depend on you having a strong creative ability as well as a
logical approach that will allow you to develop ideas in line with
specifications and regulations. The ability to express your ideas
through drawings, 3D models and computer-aided design software
will be an integral par t of the job role. You will also need good project
management skills to see your design through to the final stages of
development. Other requirements may include good practical hand
skills, the need to understand the proper ties of materials, knowledge
of production methods, commercial awareness or exper tise in
specialist subjects such as intellectual proper ty law.
Product Design
What skills will I learn?
Working within product design you’ll learn how to consider
the role of technology, economics, sustainability and legal
requirements so that ultimately you are able to produce
a design that will fulfil it’s manufacturing potential and
meet industry standards. Along the way you will test and
trial working models and prototypes with due regard for
environmental, social and aesthetic needs. You’ll develop your
critical thinking skills, acquire business acumen and learn how
to create innovative products that ultimately will improve the
quality of life for many people.
How do I get there?
To work successfully in product design you will need a por tfolio
demonstrating your creative and technical skills. You will also
need a relevant qualification such as a degree, foundation degree
or BTEC Higher National Diploma. Entry can be competitive and
job oppor tunities often come through word of mouth. You will
find it to your advantage to develop contacts through unpaid work
experience or by joining a professional body such as the Char tered
Society of Designers. Similar progression routes will allow you to
enter other sectors of the industry. Qualifications in related areas
such as project management can also be achieved through on the
job training or par t-time study.