Question

Why are separate evaluation matrices created for separate functional subunits of a design?

A) To complicate the design process
B) To streamline the design process
C) To avoid detailed evaluation
D) To simplify the design process

Answer 1

Separate evaluation matrices are created for different functional subunits to simplify and streamline the design process, allowing for a focused and modular approach to problem-solving and ensuring thorough documentation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Separate evaluation matrices are created for separate functional subunits of a design to simplify the design process. This methodical approach allows each subunit to be managed and assessed individually in accordance with specific criteria and constraints. By breaking down complex design problems into smaller, more manageable subproblems (modular design), a design team can focus on solving these effectively, which in turn contributes to solving the overall problem. This structured process also ensures that important issues are less likely to be overlooked and that the decision-making is made explicit and well-documented.

When dealing with engineered products that may involve hundreds or thousands of decisions, using separate evaluation matrices for different subunits helps streamline the decision-making. It enables the design team to evaluate potential solutions and refine the design with greater efficiency, choosing the best design according to the requirements and constraints. Therefore, the creation of separate evaluation matrices for different functional subunits is a strategy to achieve a more organized and efficient design process.