Skip to content

Iteration as a Design Principle

Iteration means repeating cycles of designing, testing, and improving. Instead of aiming for a perfect solution in one step, you create something small, test it, and refine it based on feedback. For example, when designing an interactive lamp, you might first test with simple paper mock-ups, then add LEDs, and later integrate sensors. Each version teaches you something new.

Why is this relevant to you? Because projects in Creative Technology are often complex and uncertain. Iteration helps you reduce risk, learn from mistakes, and improve quality step by step. It ensures that your designs remain flexible, user-centered, and responsive to real-world insights.

Starting Points

  • Build quick prototypes to test ideas early.
    Example: sketch an app interface on paper before coding it.
  • Collect feedback after each version and adapt your design.
    Example: ask classmates to interact with your prototype and note their reactions.
  • Plan small cycles with clear goals.
    Example: one cycle focuses on interaction design, another on technical feasibility.

Key Points

  • You treat failure as a learning opportunity: each iteration provides insights.
  • You document your iterations so that progress and reasoning remain visible.
  • You involve users in the cycle to keep designs relevant and grounded.
  • You reflect on how each iteration brings you closer to your project goals.