Engineering Design Process

The engineering design process (EDP) is an iterative process for developing and improving an object or process.

Our lessons use a seven-step process: ask, imagine, plan, create, test, improve, and share.

diagram showing steps ask, imagine, plan, create, test, improve, and share

The Engineering Design Process

ASK

  • What is the challenge?
  • What have others done?
  • What resources are available?
  • What are your limitations?
box showing word Ask?

IMAGINE

box with Imagine
  • Brainstorm!
  • What are some solutions?
  • Gather materials to test & play.

PLAN

  • Research the topic.
  • Draw a sketch of your design.
  • Make lists of materials you need.
  • Plan your steps.
graphic showing a pencil

CREATE

graphic showing building tools
  • Follow your plan.
  • Build a model.

TEST

  • Try it out!
  • What works?
  • What doesn’t?
graphic showing tasks checked off

IMPROVE

graphic bar chart showing improvement
  • Think about how to make your design better.
  • Modify your design to solve new problems.

SHARE

  • Show your design to others.
  • Get feedback.
image with handshake graphic

Download a FREE template for the engineering design process.

Dave Schoeff

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