The Design Mix - A Level Business
The design mix is a tricky A Level Business model to get your head around. Check out this quick article to solidify your understanding.
Understanding The Design Mix
The Design Mix is a multidimensional approach that businesses use to strike a harmonious balance between three key elements: functionality, aesthetics, and economics. It’s the art of weaving these elements together to create products that not only fulfil customer needs but also captivate their hearts and wallets.
You need to think about which element of the design mix will be the most important to a given business. For example, a budget brand is likely to focus on minimising costs, which may mean that the function and aesthetics suffer. By contrast, a luxury brand such as Rolex is likely to focus on creating an excellent aesthetic and quality functions, but it may come at a cost.
1. Function
Businesses must ensure their products serve their intended purpose effectively. The Design Mix guides them to create items that function optimally and address customers' pain points.
2. Aesthetics
In a visually driven world, aesthetics play a pivotal role. The Design Mix helps businesses craft products that are visually appealing, creating emotional connections with customers.
3. Cost
Economics cannot be ignored. Businesses use the Design Mix to manage costs while maintaining product quality and design appeal, thus maximizing profitability.
Navigating the Limitations of the Design Mix:
1. Trade-offs
Achieving a perfect balance between functionality, aesthetics, and cost can be challenging. Businesses might need to make trade-offs that impact one element to enhance another.
2. Subjectivity
Aesthetics can be subjective, varying from person to person. What's visually appealing to one customer might not resonate with another.
3. Market changes
Design preferences and technology evolve. A product created with the perfect Design Mix might become outdated in a rapidly changing market.
Edexcel A Level Business Video Library
How to access the sample tutorials:
(1) Click the button below.
(2) A trial version of the learning portal video will open where you can view one sample tutorial from each theme.
(3) Use the menu bar on the left hand side of the screen to navigate to the next sample tutorial.
(4) If you are using a mobile device, tap the top left-hand corner of the screen to open the menu.