The front end of the design process is where maximum design flexibility and least knowledge about the design problem exist. Decisions made up front have the maximum impact on the success or failure of products. In order to increase the chances of getting these decisions right, a good deal of research about the context of use of the product is typically required.
The following chapters deal with the process of understanding the users, their needs, and the context of use of products, and creating requirements for systems and products based on all these factors. The complexity involved in the front end of the design process is highlighted by the means of two case studies from the academic and industrial settings. The benefit of utilizing qualitative and quantitative analysis tools to help overcome data overload problems in the front end of the design process is demonstrated.