A set of steps engineers follow to solve a problem is referred to as an engineering process. It is highly iterative and certain parts of the process could be repeated many times within one project. The precise framing and articulation of the steps that get repeated will differ.
Research is the first step. This includes identifying requirements as well as locating information and identifying constraints. It is a critical part of the engineering design process because it enables engineers to find the best solution for a given problem.
Once researchers have collected enough data and are able to begin brainstorming solutions to the problem. This can be done in a variety of ways, and is where engineering creativity truly thrives. This is the stage where possible solutions are evaluated and then analyzed. This could include simulation studies, developing decision matrixes and even making prototypes to test.
In this step students select one of their best ideas and develop a plan to develop it. The students then build the prototype using the materials specified and then test it to make sure it is up to their standards of performance. Students may have to retest and tweak their prototypes to ensure that it performs according to the specifications.
This is a great way to teach the importance of problem solving and iteration. It is quite common for engineers to find a solution, test it and then identify an additional issue they need to tackle. The process continues until the engineer has an answer that meets their expectations.
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