Glossary AIDA (analysis of interconnected decision areas) Method used to understand how one design decision affects the options available to other decisions in a large-scale project. Alpha prototype An alpha prototype (also commonly referred to as a proof of principle model) is the initial attempt to evaluate some aspect of the intended design without trying to exactly simulate the visual appearance, choice of materials, or intended manufacturing process. Such prototypes are used to identify which design concepts are worth pursuing and where further development and testing are required. Analogical thinking The transfer of an idea from one context to a new one. Anthropometric data Anthropometry, literally meaning "measurement of humans," refers to the measurement of the human body for the purposes of understanding human physical variation. This data is collected and updated regularly and plays a vital role in establishing the ergonomic requirements for products, clothes, and architecture. Appearance model Models or visual prototypes that aim to capture the intended organic, fluid form that takes advantages of the creative possibilities of advanced computer modeling software. Blobject A product featuring smooth flowing curves, bright colors, and an absence of sharp edges. The term has been used to describe the work of 1990s designers such as Karim Rashid, and products such as the original Apple iMac. Bodystorming A participatory design method for demonstrating or developing ideas in a physical setting. Team members explore ideas and interactions physically, often using props to give a sense of place and context. CAD (computer-aided design) The use of computer software and technology for the design of real or virtual products. As in the manual drafting of technical and engineering drawings, CAD does not merely show the form of an object but enables designers to convey symbolic information such as materials, processes, dimensions, and tolerances, according to application-specific conventions. CAM (computer-aided manufacture) The Control drawing A drawing, or more commonly a CAD file, which details the aspects of a product over which the designer has control, such as the form, aesthetics, color, texture, and finish. Convergent thinking Thinking that brings together information focused on solving problems. Cradle to cradle design A model of design that aims to create systems and products that are not merely efficient but waste-free. Cradle to grave design Also known as life cycle assessment, this is the investigation and evaluation of the environmental impact of a given product or service from its birth and manufacture through its lifetime and to its final disposal. Creative product design Product design that involves designers working in a creative manner to produce innovative designs. Cutting The term used to describe machine tools such as a milling machine that remove material from a solid block of material. Divergent thinking Method used to generate creative ideas by exploring many possible