Research: Pupils sometimes make the mistake of obtaining research that has no relationship to their project. To be successful in this area you need to make all research relevant, is there any point knowing the type of records a person would buy without finding out where they would buy them from (corporate ID not music survey). On the other hand collecting information on similar products to the one you will produce is valuable if used correctly.

There are many sources available for research and you will be expected to use a range of these. Research can be found:

• From the internet (such as this site)
  
• On CD ROMs
  
• In libraries (Text books, journals etc)
  
• In shops, also their catalogues and brochures.
  
• Users of similar products I.e. market research.
  
• By producing models.
• Questionnaire - See example
  

• User needs, what does the user want? What will the best colours be for promoting my product? Use graphs and summarise your findings. Extra help can be found using the Text Design and Make it Graphic Products p8-9, 24-25,30-31, 38-40.
  
• Existing products, look at existing to help inspire you design yours.
  
• Materials, availability, characteristics and cost.
  
• Manufacturing techniques, how would you make it (one off prototype), batch produce and mass produce your product?
  
• Safety and others research items that you should have identified  in your ISR.
  

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