Design: an essential introduction is a highly illuminating primer that explores and explains the different aspects of design and the design process - from a design brief to the complete life cycle of products. It introduces in clear and concise language the different materials and production methods available to contemporary designers, which allow them to transform their design ideas into better products. This useful handbook also covers other design-relevant topics such as ergonomics, Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacture and rapid prototyping and additionally features a number of fascinating design case studies.