Final answer:
Project life cycles are independent of the products they produce, involving gradual evolution from concept to retirement. Engineering design often exhibits repetitive or cyclical processes, while newer sociological models emphasize fluid progression over rigid stages, analogous to the need for flexibility in product development.
Step-by-step explanation:
Project life cycles are independent of products, which may be produced by a project. A life cycle is the series of phases that represent the evolution of a product, from concept through delivery, growth, maturity, and to retirement. The life cycle of a product is not to be confused with repetitive or cyclical processes such as the engineering design process, which involves completing project tasks in cycles until the desired result is achieved.
In the context of engineering design, teams engage in various types of projects. These can range from incremental design, which involves enhancing an existing product or process, to new design projects that develop new products from scratch. The design process is critical and can entail a lengthy period of developing a detailed design from a concept, greatly influencing the project's success.
Sociological models like the family life course, which view family events as part of a fluid course rather than in strict stages, provide an analogy for understanding how product life cycles can adapt and evolve rather than follow a rigid, predetermined path. This mirrors the flexibility required during the design process, where changes and evolution may be necessary for successful project completion.