The PDMA Handbook of New Product Development

25.7. Rapid Visualization

Industrial design concepts are communicated in a number of forms. Sketches are a common method of two-dimensional communication for which designers are well known; perspective drawings in pencil, marker, or other media are a common way to rapidly develop sketches. Industrial designers are trained in a number of methods to quickly express ideas and seek the fastest way to help others visualize an idea or a design. Sketches are effective tools that help industrial designers see the design and allow them to explore many alternatives, such as viewing an object from many angles (see Figure 25.3).

With an idea more fully developed, project needs may dictate a more refined image of the product. A variety of media and approaches can be used to create renderings, which are more controlled, colorful, and dramatic, and most often intended for presentations. In the earlier days of the profession, renderings were produced using watercolors, gouache (a water-based paint), pastels, and charcoal. Renderings have evolved with the use of magic markers. Markers add speed, punch, and vibrancy, and while they may limit the designer's palette somewhat to the colors on hand and don't have the infinite modulation of color that paints provide, markers are a very effective way to communicate ideas.

As in most other areas of product development, computerized tools have transformed industrial design by giving designers additional means for communicating design ideas faster and more ...