Industrial Design

Answer 1

An industrial designer develops new products for consumers. The shape, size, color and materials of each manufactured product are decided by an industrial designer. Safety and reliability are dependent on the design. Creative people are naturally needed and attracted by this field of work. An industrial designer reports to the team leader of a project or the manager of a design division. Each project is reviewed by a team or a supervisor for changes and suggestions. In this field, many designers work on a freelance basis, and many companies outsource their design work to cut corporate costs.

A bachelor’s degree in industrial design is usually required for entry-level positions. Courses in engineering, physical science, mathematics, psychology and anthropology are often required, along with the expected manufacturing processing and art classes. Business courses are recommended as many designers will be self-employed, and those who are hired by manufacturers will be expected to work as a team with business strategists, marketing professionals and Accountants.

Although creativity is vital in this field, the industrial designer must also be able to express their creative visions verbally, in drawings, and in writing. They must always be searching for new trends in color and function and must stay on top of consumer demands. Designers are required to work well under pressure, have good problem-solving skills, and be independent thinkers. Self-discipline and the ability to work alone are also essential.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the industrial designer job market is expected to grow 9% by 2018 in order to supply the increased demands for innovative products. There will be plenty of competition for these jobs due to the popularity of the field, with positions being won by applicants with experience as interns, technical skills and outstanding portfolios.

Experienced industrial designers make an average yearly income of $57,000. Entry level positions pay about $31,000. The high range for this position is $77,000 to $98,000, although some designers who start their own lines and are excellent marketers make millions.

Answer 2

The Industrial Design Society of America (IDSA) describes industrial design as “the professional service of creating and developing concepts and specifications that optimize the function, value and appearance of products and systems for the mutual benefit of both user and manufacturer.”The main function of an industrial designer is to improve the appeal and usability of practically all manufactured products.From automobiles to toys, industrial designers design the style, function and safety of goods.

Famous examples of the industrial design combination of form and function include Raymond Loewy’s 1955 redesign of the contour Coke bottle and the Myron Goldfinger Millennium House.

The Study of Industrial Design

The study of industrial design teaches students to blend art and engineering in order to create designs that are innovative and unique.Industrial design programs offer courses in Sketching and computer-aided design (CAD) software, marketing, and applied arts.Aesthetics, ethics, business methods, and research are also emphasized by industrial design programs.Students are also taught to create models out of clay, wood, plastics and other materials.

Most students of industrial design specialize in a product category.Examples include transportation design, toy design, and furniture design.

Depending on the university, Industrial Design programs may be found in either the school of Science or Art.

Industrial Design Colleges

Industrial design degree programs can be found both on campus and online.Most programs are 4-year bachelor degrees, or masters degree programs, but some colleges offer industrial design associate’s degrees and certification programs.To be competitive, most industrial designers will need at least a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design.

Online Industrial Design Programs

The Arizona State College of Design offers a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design and a Master of Science in Industrial Design.The Academy of Art University offers an Associate of Arts, a Bachelor of Fine Art, and a Master of Fine Arts in Industrial Studies.

Industrial Design Career

Industrial designers are employed by manufactures of automobiles, furniture, toys, appliances, medical equipment, and tools.