Many engineers utilize a structured engineering design process to offer solutions to customer needs. The process helps add an order to the project and encourages creative thinking. The real-time data collected during the process can also aid in reducing the chance of bias and encourage more accurate decision making. The process of engineering also instructs that setbacks and errors can be valuable sources for data the engineering design process for future projects.

Problem definition is the very first step of the engineering design process. Engineers must be clear about what their product is going to do and the reasons for its existence. This step is crucial for the rest of the engineering process.

Once the problem has been identified, it is crucial to gather as much information about the solution to the need as is possible. This can be accomplished by conducting a thorough research, asking questions that are important and brainstorming ideas. This is where engineering creativity really shines and where the most innovative solutions can result.

Engineers must identify potential solutions and analyze their pros and cons before selecting the best. The solution should also be able meet the requirements of the project (e.g. cost, materials space, and time are all important aspects.

It is a good thing to make a model after selecting the best solution. Then tests can be run to determine if the product can do what it is supposed to do. It is possible to cut the development time of the entire project by identifying flaws in the early stages. This can also save money on fixing problems later.