Heuristics-based Design Process

Abstract

This article explores the applicability of heuristic rules into the decision-making processes involved in design practices, with the aim of generating a strategic approach for the fixation, tangibilization and re-utilization of knowledge within organizations. For this purpose, the research focuses on the creation of a methodological approach and a support tool that seeks to facilitate the introduction of heuristics into particular stages of the design process, such as concept development and architecture definition. This is achieved by providing an initial analysis of the design problem, and the definition of specific problem solving actions based on heuristics. This means that, with the aid of tools specifically developed for the method, the process will help design engineers explore several solution principles with applications previously implemented in diverse domains, thus triggering creativity in problem solving activities. This will enable a more diverse concept generation and a more detailed product development process. In addition, it will allow organizations to work with tools and procedures for them to ensure that emerging knowledge can be integrated to the proposed approach and reused in the future.