IT-Based Tools to Support New Product Design: A Case Study of a Design Consultancy Firm - Information Technology and Product Development - page 76

and features of such a tool and the varied product design contexts where it may be
useful.
Another key problem that IT-based tools could address in the design process
relates to the lack of a common language of expression between clients and
designers. One possible solution to this would be the application of computer-
based ontologies. Tools implementing such ontologies could be integrated into
a semantically driven version of the virtual design environment. Future studies
should examine the design of such tools and the factors that may impact their
effectiveness.
Information technology can play a critical role in supporting the product design
process. The tools described in this chapter, some of which are still at the prototype
stage, have considerable potential to increase the productivity and effectiveness of
the design process. They are underpinned by a number of principles and techniques
in common use by design professionals and as such these tools present limited learn-
ing curve for designers. The complex nature of the product design process requires
creative and innovative solutions capable of enhancing the designers' capabilities,
particularly integrating the communication, idea generation, and idea evaluation
processes, so that more effective design solutions may result.
It is hoped that this chapter would lead to greater focus from both researchers and
practitioners on the development and implementation of IT-based tools that support
product design.

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