Physical and Functional Elements - The Nature of Technology

Physical and Functional Elements (Attributes)

Design elements provide another useful tool for analysing and interpreting an existing technological outcome.

• Elements such as colour, movement, pattern and rhythm, proportion, balance, harmony, contrast, and style relate to the outcome’s physical nature (its “form”).
• Elements such strength and durability, safety and stability, efficiency, reliability, nutritional value, user-friendliness, and ergonomic fit relate to the outcome’s functional nature.

By looking at these elements as a whole, the technologist can see how physical and functional elements have been prioritised to give an outcome that can be considered fit for purpose. Almost certainly they could have been prioritised differently depending on the intent of the designer, their knowledge of materials, their professional and personal beliefs, the sociocultural context, and so on.

Can you identify the physical and functional elements (attributes) that relate to Textiles?

Source: TKI.org.nz - Characteristics of technological outcomes.