Final answer:
Functional modifications do not always require that the product be redesigned, although significant changes may lead to a redesign. Early poor design decisions can make it hard to meet customer needs, and product design is influenced by many factors, including consumer preferences and societal changes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Functional modifications to a product do not necessarily require that the product be completely redesigned; this statement is False. While significant functional changes can lead to a redesign, minor adjustments may not require a complete overhaul of the product's design. However, it is essential to consider that, as a product moves from the design phase to manufacturing and implementation, the effort required to change the design increases substantially, and poor early design decisions can have lasting impacts.
Moreover, the design process is multidimensional; it must consider the needs of consumers, regulators, transporters, assembly line workers, and parts suppliers. Consumer preferences can change rapidly, which influences product design - for instance, consumer desires can shift from a sports car to more fuel-efficient vehicles due to changes in personal circumstances or economic factors like fluctuating gas prices.
In essence, product design incorporates both function and aesthetics and evolves with societal changes, economic conditions, and technological advancements.