Function Analysis

Why

To gain an overview of all the functions a future product should perform. In this way you can come up with more specific solutions.

How

Deconstruct a product until all its functions are clear; this results in a scheme (function tree) where all functions are hierarchically classified.

Ingredients

• Definition of the most important function and sub-functions.

• Description of functions in terms of both a noun & verb.

• Insights in the relations between the different functions.

• Use the steps from the product life cycle as a starting point.

• A multidisciplinary mindset.

Practice

Engineers use function analysis to translate client wishes into a physical design. A function analysis is also used to get better insights into what a product should do