national occupational standard

NationalOccupationalStandard

ProductDesigner

For the Canadian Advanced Wood Products Processing Sector

This p

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by th

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The Advanced Wood Manufacturing Sector is an exciting, modern and increasingly technologically-driven sector requiring high levels of skill, knowledge and positive, performance minded attitudes to ensure customer satisfaction, long-term profitability and global competitiveness. The Wood Manufacturing Council (WMC) is the Human Resources Sector Council for the advanced wood products processing industry. One of the recent initiatives undertaken by the WMC, which will directly assist in presenting a realistic picture of the skills and performance requirements of the industry, as well as assist the sector in planning for and developing adequate human resources, is the introduction / publication of this Product Designer / Developer Occupational Standard for the sector. To order additional copies of this or any of our National Occupational Standards, or to find out about the range of other resources the council has available, please contact us at:

Wood Manufacturing Council

130 Albert St., Suite 1016 Ottawa, ON, K1P 5G4 Phone: (613) 567-5511

Fax: (613) 567-5411 e-mail: [email protected]

Web Site: www.wmc-cfb.ca

Ce document est aussi disponible en Français.

© 2012 Copyright by the Wood Manufacturing Council

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the express written consent of the Wood Manufacturing Council.

The opinions and interpretations in this publication are those of the author and do not necessarily

reflect those of the Government of Canada.

Product Designer/Developer National Occupational Standard Wood Manufacturing Council

ii

Contents

Acknowledgements ...................................................................................................................................... iii

1. Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 About the Wood Manufacturing Council ............................................................................................ 1

1.2 Development of the National Occupational Standards ...................................................................... 1

2. Scope of Occupation ................................................................................................................................. 3

3. Occupational Environment ....................................................................................................................... 4

3.1 Working Environment ......................................................................................................................... 4

3.2 Physical Requirements ........................................................................................................................ 4

3.3 Human Interactions ............................................................................................................................ 4

4. Tools and Equipment ................................................................................................................................ 5

5. Knowledge, Abilities, Skills ........................................................................................................................ 6

6. Behaviours, Attitudes, Personal Characteristics ....................................................................................... 7

7. Contextual Information ............................................................................................................................. 8

8. Major Categories, Tasks, Sub-Tasks, Supporting Knowledge and Abilities ............................................... 9

8.1 Major Category A: Conceptualize Product .......................................................................................... 9

8.2 Major Category B: Design Product .................................................................................................... 11

8.3 Major Category C: Design for Production ......................................................................................... 13

8.4 Major Category D: Conduct Product Research and Development ................................................... 15

8.5 Major Category E: Provide Customer Service ................................................................................... 17

8.6 Major Category F: Implement Quality Standards ............................................................................. 20


iii

Acknowledgements

Project Steering Committee:

Pete Fournier

Vice-President of Business Development

Triangle Group

Frank Jess

Wood Products Manufacturing

Technology Instructor

Red River College

Laurelyn Nielsen

Human Resources Director

Bogdan & Gross Furniture Company Ltd.

Sandra Nigro

Executive Director

Modular Housing Association – Prairie Provinces

Deborah Shaman

HRSDC

Sid Watts

Executive Director

Atlantic Wood

Development and Validation Meeting

Participants:

Nina Boulanger

Cabinetworks Ltd.

Nova Scotia

Joe Edwards

Jabez Furniture

British Columbia

Arthur Greenwall

Arthur Greenwall Fine Furniture

Alberta

Dylan Kinch

Talon Millwork

Ontario

Arnim Rodeck

Shamawood Fine Wood Working

British Columbia

Bob Sloper

Synergy

British Columbia

The Wood Manufacturing Council:

Richard Lipman

President

Stephen Kennedy

Project Manager

Research Consultants:

Bernadette Allen

President

The Competency Group

Tim Curley

Project Manager


Kristin Nicholson

Researcher



1

1. Introduction The advanced wood manufacturing sector is a major contributor to Canada’s economy. The industry is at

the cutting edge of technology, using the latest practices and equipment to ensure efficient production

that helps both the sector and the environment thrive. Advanced engineering creates wood products

from fast-growing species and produces high-strength products from smaller trees. Businesses in the

industry are able to use more of each log that is harvested, meaning that more products can be

produced with less waste.

The industry is made up of five sub-sectors:

Furniture;

Cabinets;

Window and doors;

Millwork; and

Building components.

A wide range of small and large businesses comprises the industry, including global brand-name

companies with “household” recognition. Nevertheless, small shops (i.e. those typically employing fewer

than four people) account for 60% of all organizations in Canada’s advanced wood processing sector.

1.1 About the Wood Manufacturing Council Canada has an number sector councils representing key industry sectors. Each council is responsible for

bringing together all industry stakeholders to help solve human resource and skills development issues

within its sector. Since 2002, the Wood Manufacturing Council (WMC) has collaborated with employers,

workers, educators, professional associations and government to help implement human resources

solutions that will ensure the success of the advanced wood manufacturing sector.

The Council's mandate is to plan, develop and implement human resources strategies that support the

long-term growth and competitiveness of Canada's advanced wood products manufacturing industry

and meet the developmental needs of its workforce. The Council identifies and examines the necessary

skills and knowledge required to respond to changing industry needs. The Council also develops an

overall strategic plan to address key issues such as the shortage of skilled workers and the need for

national standards for worker competencies.

1.2 Development of the National Occupational Standards The Product Designer/Developer National Occupational Standards (NOS) is part of the Wood

Manufacturing Council’s (WMC) Development of Wood Manufacturing National Occupational Standards

and Essential Skills Training Program initiative. The goal of this project was to work with job incumbents

and other stakeholders to develop and nationally validate the occupational profile for three sector

occupations and review the scope of the occupation. The NOS will serve as the basis for program

development, such as the creation of training curriculum or competency-based assessment programs.


2

The standards also help inform the public about careers in the industry and other labour market

requirements.

The members of the WMC National Steering Committee decided to focus on three key occupations,

including that of the Product Designer/Developer, for the duration of this project. This initiated the

development of the Product Designer/Developer National Occupational Standards. Eleven key informant

interviews with wood manufacturing businesses were conducted; the information gleaned from these

discussions informed the creation of a situational analysis report, which served as the basis for the NOS

development.

In May 2011, the draft NOS was produced during a meeting that included Product Designer/Developers

from across the country. The WMC Steering Committee then approved this draft. Online surveys

captured the input of other Product Designer/Developers in Canada; the information derived from the

survey results was incorporated into the NOS, as well. A second group of Product Designer/Developers

providing pan-Canadian representation was convened in November 2011 and validated the NOS

document. This meeting produced the changes that shaped the final validated NOS and DACUM charts.


3

2. Scope of Occupation Product Designers/Developers in wood manufacturing companies conceptualize, design, develop, and

test prototypes of new products. They are involved in research and development to improve existing

product lines. The Product Designers’/Developers’ creative role supports the innovation initiatives and

diversification plans of the enterprise. They may also assist in evaluating the feasibility, functionality,

value, market fit and niche of a new product before its launch. They may assess competitors' products

for comparison and benchmarking purposes. They keep abreast of the latest trends and technologies in

the industry that align with market demands and fit in with organizational strategies and goals. They

ensure products are designed for manufacturability. They collaborate with Marketing, Sales and Product

Knowledge Facilitators to ensure the accuracy and market relevance of chief product attributes;

addressing features, benefits and competitive advantages. They may also have responsibility to

implement quality standards in product design and development, ensure that finished product meets

industry standards, and identify and participate in continuous improvement opportunities. Product

Designers/Developers may also serve as public faces of their companies, meeting with customers to

determine the requirements of a project and representing the company at trade shows, conventions

and similar events.


4

3. Occupational Environment

3.1 Working Environment In large enterprises, the work setting of Product Designers/Developers may be a part of the plant

facilities with a separate wing or building for research and development. They may shuttle back and

forth between the research and production facilities during the progressive phases of product design

and development. Noise levels and other working conditions in the design laboratory and shop floor

demand the use of personal protective gear and safety equipment to comply with occupational health

and safety requirements. Sufficient lighting and proper ventilation should be provided in all workspaces.

3.2 Physical Requirements The research and design process may require sitting at a workstation for extended periods of time.

Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination are essential in constructing a design model or product

prototype.

During the production and testing phases, physical activities such as standing, bending, lifting, and

walking may be expected of Product Designers/Developers as they inspect, test, troubleshoot and

become immersed in product development through to completion.

3.3 Human Interactions Product Designers/Developers divide their time working independently and collaboratively with project

teams. They communicate with Project Managers and consult with clients to ensure that design,

production and quality requirements are met. Another integral part of their job is to interact with the

production team, Quality Assurance Controller, Production Manager, Operations Manager, and others

involved in the project to clarify design or manufacturing issues, give and obtain feedback, maintain

quality standards, and improve production processes and efficiencies.

They also liaise with vendors to evaluate and compare raw materials, parts and other accessories to

determine the best components that may be needed for new products.

It is beneficial for Product Designers/Developers to be active members of organizations relevant to their

trade, network with colleagues and industry partners, attend conventions and product launches, and

meet prospective clients. By their presence and participation, they can keep up with latest trends and

technology, discover market needs, respond to customer demands, learn about product innovations of

rival companies and help the company stay ahead of the competitive curve.


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4. Tools and Equipment The following list was developed in the National Occupational Standard development and validation

meetings. It includes standard tools and equipment used by Product Designers/Developers.

Administrative office software

CAD/CAM

Calculator

Camera

Computer

Electronic communication tools (e.g. scan, e-mail, fax)

Graph paper

Measuring tools (e.g. tape measure, scale)

Pencil

Printer


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5. Knowledge, Abilities, Skills The following list was developed in the National Occupational Standard development and validation

meetings. It includes knowledge, abilities and skills that are required in the Product Designer/Developer

occupation.

Ability to be creative

Ability to communicate

Ability to conceptualize

Ability to liaise with contractors

Ability to perceive 3D

Ability to question customers

Ability to understand client needs

Accessibility to site

Budgeting

Building codes

Colours

Competitive products

Construction building regulations

Construction standards

Industry regulations

Knowledge of industrial standards

Knowledge of packaging

Listen

Market knowledge

Materials

Materials

Mathematical skills

Measurement

Positive and negative space

Practical and fundamental aspects of design

Product distribution

Shapes (e.g. of the room, people, product)

Shipping and transportation


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6. Behaviours, Attitudes, Personal Characteristics The following list was developed in the National Occupational Standard development and validation

meetings. It includes the personal behaviours, attitudes and personal characteristics that are beneficial

to someone in the Product Designer/Developer occupation.

Aesthetic sense

Attention to detail

Be a team player

Be artistic

Be creative

Be open to change

Be organized

Courteous

Delegate

Flexible

Goal oriented

Honesty

Integrity

Multitasking skills

Outgoing

Positive attitude

Professional

Time management skills

Urgency

Willingness to learn continuously

Willingness to listen to others

Willingness to think outside of the box, experiment and look at other people’s ideas


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7. Contextual Information Contextual information provides additional information about a task. It is useful in the development of training materials or in identifying appropriate training tools or methods. Specifically, contextual information provides additional detail about the importance, frequency and difficulty of each task. A description of the rating scales is as follows:

Importance: a qualitative rating that indicates the importance of the skill to competent performance.

1. Not important: performance of this skill is not essential to the job

2. Somewhat important: performance of this skill is minimally necessary to the job

3. Important: performance of this skill is moderately essential to the job

4. Extremely important: performance of this skill is critical; non-performance poses a risk

Frequency: a rating that indicates on average how often the Product Designer would perform a task.

1. Situational

2. Continuously

Difficulty: defines the levels of effort, challenge and complication associated with the performance of the task.

1. Not Difficult

2. Somewhat Difficult

3. Difficult

4. Very Difficult

5. Variable


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8. Major Categories, Tasks, Sub-Tasks, Supporting Knowledge and Abilities

8.1 Major Category A: Conceptualize Product

Tasks Subtasks Supporting Knowledge and

Abilities

A1. Obtain product requirements Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 2

1.1 Gather general information (e.g. customer wants and needs, timelines, product concept and design) 1.2 Gather specific information (e.g. product size, materials, hardware) 1.3 Qualify design aspect

Knowledge of: - product specifications - materials - customer

expectations Ability to:

- communicate - articulate specifics

(e.g. materials, hardware, finishes)

- schedule

A2. Explore existing products Importance: 3 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 1

2.1 Determine if design for proposed product exists 2.2 Research existing design options 2.3 Analyze existing design options

Knowledge of: - product - production methods

Ability to: - ask the right

questions (e.g. does the home owner have a problem with the product?)

- communicate - offer solutions

A3. Determine technical specifications involved in developing product Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 3

3.1 Review functionality 3.2 Offer alternate solution to original requests that cannot be met 3.3 Implement basic technical design principles

Knowledge of: - product - past experience with

hardware - basic design principles - project layout

Ability to: - be solution-oriented - innovate - communicate

A4. Devise new product concepts Importance: 4 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 3

4.1 Envision product concept 4.2 Draw product concept 4.3 Gather initial feedback 4.4 Refine concept

Knowledge of: - alternative concepts - technical drawings

Ability to: - be creative - be open to

suggestions


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A5. Propose possible alternate concepts Importance: 3 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 4

5.1 Determine form and function 5.2 Ask questions that elicit open thinking 5.3 Investigate alternative concepts 5.4 Encourage ideas from the client 5.5 Communicate new ideas

Knowledge of: - alternative concepts - product specifications - customer

expectations Ability to:

- understand customer requirements (e.g. form, function)

- listen - communicate

A6. Create sample components Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 3

6.1 Gather/make material samples (e.g. fabric, wood, metal, glass, ceramics) 6.2 Develop samples (e.g. colour, texture, finish) 6.3 Demonstrate functioning hardware samples

Knowledge of: - materials and colours

variety Ability to:

- identify pros and cons of product function and finishes


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8.2 Major Category B: Design Product


Abilities

B1. Provide visual concepts Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 3

1.1 Determine level of visual concept required 1.2 Provide visual concepts (e.g. drawings, prototypes) 1.3 Decide limit of options

Knowledge of: - appropriate samples

Ability to: - satisfy the customer - relate sample to the

finished product

B2. Determine production methods Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 2

2.1 Determine how product will be produced 2.2 Decide which materials to be used 2.3 Determine availability of materials 2.4 Determine sequence of assembly 2.5 Determine level of preparation required (e.g. degree of sanding) 2.6 Designate level of finish for product

Knowledge of: - production capacity - material, finishes and

hardware Ability to:

- source material (e.g. hardware, finishes)

- schedule - make decisions

B3. Determine best use of materials Importance: 3 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 3

3.1 Design to make best use of materials 3.2 Determine quality of materials used 3.3 Consider cost efficiencies 3.4 Involve production staff

Knowledge of: - materials - suppliers

Ability to: - lead team - identify possible uses

for material - communicate with

craftsman and makers

B4. Consider budget/cost of production Importance: 2 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 2

4.1 Consider cost of materials 4.2 Consider cost of labour 4.3 Consider cost of facility 4.4 Consider cost of incidentals (e.g. shipping, in-bound fiber)

Knowledge of: - operating costs - production schedule

Ability to: - communicate with

marketing, production, accounting, advertizing and transportation

- anticipate problems (e.g. delays, re-scheduling)

- schedule


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B5. Establish range of variability (e.g. colour, grain, dimension) Importance: 3 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 2

5.1 Test sample (e.g. stains, grain structure, degrees of clear finish) 5.2 Show samples 5.3 Establish product care guidelines

Knowledge of: - product variability

Ability to: - understand possible

variations within similar materials

- understand compatibility of materials

B6. Develop mock-ups and sample products Importance: 3 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 2

6.1 Develop scale-models 6.2 Review scale-models 6.3 Develop life-size mock-ups 6.4 Segment samples (e.g. partial pieces from different areas with different details and finishes)

Knowledge of: - product specifications - appropriate samples

Ability to: - be creative - troubleshoot - work with people - satisfy customer


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8.3 Major Category C: Design for Production


Abilities

C1. Determine product specifications Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 3

1.1 Visit site to measure dimensions 1.2 Reach agreement of design with client (i.e. visual concepts) 1.3 Determine possible product variations (e.g. design, size)

Knowledge of: - scale - measurements

Ability to: - conceptualize project - work with people - communicate - negotiate

C2. Determine options for specific design and technical drawings Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 2

2.1 Develop drawings 2.2 Provide renderings 2.3 Develop custom schematics 2.4 Liaise with sub-contractors (e.g. design firms, architects)

Knowledge of: - technical drawings - project requirements

Ability to: - read and understand

technical drawings - work with people

C3. Agree on change orders and sign-offs Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 1

3.1 Agree on contract 3.2 Agree on final design (e.g. with customer, architect, designer) 3.3 Agree on product completion timeline 3.4 Implement timeline procedure 3.5 Implement change order procedure, when required

Knowledge of: - change orders - sign-off documents

Ability to: - implement

procedures (e.g. timeline and change order procedure)

- negotiate - communicate - schedule

C4. Conceptualize product display Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 2

4.1 Determine how the product will be presented 4.2 Design product display (e.g. to optimize space) 4.3 Provide input to marketing regarding product attributes 4.4 Provide input on display content

Knowledge of: - product - marketing techniques - display options

Ability to: - conceptualize display - innovate


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C5. Design for post-production assembly Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 3

5.1 Design for mobility 5.2 Design for site assembly 5.3 Develop post-assembly instructions 5.4 Test post-production assembly 5.5 Gather feedback 5.6 Revise post-production assembly, if necessary

Knowledge of: - modular design - work site - accessibility of end

placement Ability to:

- understand component construction

- design for mobility - communicate

C6. Develop packaging concepts Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 2

6.1 Establish need for protection (e.g. travel and moving insurance) 6.2 Consider packaging costs 6.3 Establish appropriate wrapping for various modes of transport 6.4 Select delivery method 6.5 Select delivery firm

Knowledge of: - packaging materials - transportation

methods Ability to:

- foresee transportation problems

- select appropriate transportation methods

- make decisions

C7. Develop installation methods Importance: 4 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 2

7.1 Develop installation instructions (e.g. written, verbal, diagram) 7.2 Develop on-site product care instructions

Knowledge of: - product use

Ability to: - communicate

documented product care instructions to customer


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8.4 Major Category D: Conduct Product Research and Development


Abilities

D1. Conduct market surveys Importance: 3 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 2

1.1 Determine market to be investigated 1.2 Determine audience to be surveyed 1.3 Develop survey questions 1.4 Distribute survey 1.5 Collect completed surveys 1.6 Tabulate results 1.7 Analyze data 1.8 Prepare findings and associated recommendations

Knowledge of: - customer base - product specifications - materials - production capacity - survey techniques

Ability to: - articulate specifics


- research

D2. Attend product-specific trade shows Importance: 3 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 1

2.1 Target products to be investigated 2.2 Research available shows for specific products 2.3 Coordinate travel logistics 2.4 Gather product information from exhibitors

Knowledge of: - new products - production capacity - research methods

Ability to: - ask the right

questions (e.g. does the home owner have a problem with the product?)

- communicate - innovate

D3. Survey existing customers Importance: 4 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 2

3.1 Determine audience to be surveyed 3.2 Develop survey questions 3.3 Distribute survey 3.4 Collect completed surveys 3.5 Tabulate results 3.6 Analyze data 3.7 Prepare findings and associated recommendations

Knowledge of: - product specifications - production capacity - survey techniques - customer base - research methods



- ask the right questions (e.g. does the home owner have a problem with the product?)


16

D4. Evaluate competitor products (e.g. pricing, functionality, quality, environmental impact) Importance: 3 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 3

4.1 Determine products to be investigated 4.2 Acquire competitor products 4.3 Test competitor products 4.4 Record data 4.5 Determine product similarities and differences from your company offerings 4.6 Determine regulatory issues (e.g. government, environment, patents) 4.7 Determine impact to your company offering based on findings 4.8 Recommend adjustments

Knowledge of: - alternative concepts - product quality - design - materials and colours - production capacity

Ability to: - be creative - identify pros and cons

of product function and finishes

- compare products - research

D5. Adapt design concepts from other industry products Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 2

5.1 Research other industry products 5.2 Identify practices that could translate to internal product design challenges 5.3 Incorporate pertinent design concepts into internal design process

Knowledge of: - wood manufacturing

industry - design - materials, finishes and

colours - research methods

Ability to: - identify pros and cons

of product function and finishes

- communicate with craftsman and makers

- establish production capability


17

8.5 Major Category E: Provide Customer Service


Abilities

E1. Gather customer preferences for product design Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 5

1.1 Meet with customer 1.2 Discuss product concepts 1.3 Discuss product design 1.4 Discuss individual needs 1.5 Discuss materials 1.6 Provide feedback to customer on options

Knowledge of: - product specifications - basic design principles - material - production capacity



- discuss pros and cons of product function and finishes

- understand customer’s expectations

- communicate - innovate

E2. Determine client budget Importance: 3 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 2

2.1 Meet with customer 2.2 Discuss material cost options 2.3 Discuss design cost options

Knowledge of: - product - production capacity - pricing

Ability to: - determine the

production process - ask the right questions

(e.g. does the home owner have a problem with the product?)

- communicate


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E3. Present product design concept to customer Importance: 3 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 1

3.1 Complete design drawing 3.2 Communicate with customer 3.3 Present initial design concept

Knowledge of: - past product

experience - project layout (i.e. use

of materials) - technical drawings - basic design principles - presentation

techniques Ability to:

- communicate - be solution-oriented - determine blueprint

E4. Incorporate client requests into product design Importance: 3 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 3

4.1 Communicate with customer 4.2.Discuss initial design 4.3 Discuss customer requests 4.4 Formulate plan for incorporating requests into existing design 4.5 Discuss alternative options 4.6 Execute design update plan

Knowledge of: - materials and colours - basic design principles

Ability to: - be creative - articulate specifics


- satisfy the customer - establish production

capacity

E5. Establish timelines and schedule Importance: 4 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 3

5.1 Meet with customer 5.2 Discuss customer timeline 5.3 Inform customer of realistic production schedules 5.4 Agree upon project completion timelines 5.5 Communicate schedule to production manager 5.6 Communicate revised timelines, if necessary 5.6 Communicate specifications to sub-trades

Knowledge of: - alternative concepts - product - production capacity

Ability to: - be creative - communicate - schedule - anticipate problems

(e.g. delays, re-scheduling)

- negotiate


19

E6. Inform customer of product care Importance: 3 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 1

6.1 Communicate with customer 6.2 Provide information on warranty 6.3 Provide information on proper maintenance of product 6.4 Answer customer questions

Knowledge of: - product specifications - materials and colours - wear and tear issues - product warranty

Ability to: - communicate - articulate specifics


- discuss pros and cons of product function and finishes

E7. Handle product issues Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 5

7.1 Document product complaint 7.2 Investigate complaint 7. 3 Determine point of failure7.4 Determine proper action 7.5 Communicate solution 7.6 Resolve issue

Knowledge of: - product specifications - production process - workplace policies

and procedures Ability to:

- communicate - negotiate - solve problems


20

8.6 Major Category F: Implement Quality Standards


Abilities

F1. Establish production quality control procedures Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 3

1.1 Determine company quality standards 1.2 Comply with industry standards and certifications 1.3 Develop processes for quality checkpoints 1.4 Review quality audit report

Knowledge of: - product specifications - design - material - production capacity

Ability to: - communicate - articulate specifics


- schedule

F2. Ensure use of specified products Importance: 4 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 2

2.1 Communicate material requirements internally to organization 2.2 Communicate design specific requirements 2.3 Evaluate material quality 2.4 Communicate requests for alternate material usage

Knowledge of: - product - materials - production methods

Ability to: - communicate - offer solutions - analyze

F3.Provide input on warranty and post-production servicing Importance: 4 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 2

3.1 Provide input on capability of product and hardware 3.2 Provide input on warranty limits (e.g. coating, misuse, commercial cleaning products) 3.3 Identify post-production servicing needs 3.4 Communicate warranty

Knowledge of: - material life cycle - product warranty

Ability to: - document warranties - communicate

F4. Implement product safety measures Importance: 4 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 2

4.1 Research product safety considerations 4.2 Develop safety standards 4.3 Communicate product safety standards to production staff 4.4 Implement testing to ensure safety compliance 4.5 Review testing results

Knowledge of: - product’s safety

considerations - production process - product testing

methods Ability to:

- foresee consequences - communicate


21

F5. Design to conform with industry regulatory standards Importance: 4 Frequency: 2 Difficulty: 3

5.1 Research industry regulatory standards 5.2 Select applicable regulatory standards 5.3 Communicate regulatory standards to staff 5.4 Implement testing to ensure regulatory compliance 5.5 Review testing results

Knowledge of: - regulatory standards - building codes - product testing

methods Ability to:

- foresee consequences - evaluate products for

compliance to standard

F6. Conduct post-production product testing Importance: 4 Frequency: 1 Difficulty: 2

6.1 Determine product features to test 6.2 Implement testing procedures 6.3 Analyze test results 6.4 Incorporate test results into design improvement initiatives

Knowledge of: - alternative concepts - product - product testing

methods Ability to:

- understand customer requirements (e.g. form, function)

- foresee consequences

__ Duty __A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6

A Conceptualize Product

Obtain product requirements

Explore existing products

Determine technical specifications

involved in developing product

Devise new product concepts

Propose possible alternate concepts

Create sample components

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

B Design Product Provide visual concepts

Determine production methods

Determine best use of materials

Consider budget/cost of products

Establish range of variability (e.g. colour,

grain, dimension)

Develop mock-ups and sample products

C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 C7

C Design for Production

Determine product specifications

Determine options for specific design and technical drawings

Agree on change orders and sign-offs

Conceptualize product display

Design for post-production assembly

Develop packaging concepts

Develop installation methods

D1 D2 D3 D4 D5

DConduct Product

Research and Development

Conduct market surveys

Attend product-specific trade shows

Survey existing customers

Evaluate competitor products (e.g. pricing, functionality, quality,

environmental impact)

Adapt design concepts from other

industry products

E1 E2 E3 E4 E5 E6 E7

E Provide Customer Service

Gather customer preferences for product design

Determine client budget

Present product design concept to

customer

Incorporate client requests into product

design

Establish timelines and schedule

Inform customer of product care

Handle product issues

F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6

F Implement Quality Standards

Establish production quality control

procedures

Ensure use of specified products

Provide input on warranty and post-

production servicing

Implement product safety measures

Design to conform with industry

regulatory standards

Conduct post-production product

testing

___________________________________ Tasks ___________________________________

National Occupational Standards: DACUM Chart for Product Designer/Developer

national occupational standard

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