Noor's+Lab+1

Inside the Apple iPod Design Triumph http://www.designchain.com/testprint.asp?issue=summer02&template=coverstory 1. Describe the unusual business model used in the iPod's fabrication as developed by Apple.

The unusual business model used in the iPod’s fabrication as developed by Apple is that the underlying iPod design that was performed by different companies. Apple worked with other established companies to build different components of the iPod. One of the main companies was PortalPlayer, it has developed a base platform for a variety of audio systems. Apple chose to work with PortalPlayer to also create a platform and a reference design for the iPod. PortalPlayer selected other design chain members that offer other tools and capabilities, such as the battery, and the hard drive. By working with other successful companies, Apple was able to create a unique product that is user friendly and allowed individuals to carry around their entire music collection wherever they go.

Jonathan Ive at the Design Museum http://www.designmuseum.org/design/jonathan-ive 2. What distinguishes the work of the team of Jobs and Ive in relation to products designed by Apple? What new materials are enabling different design?

The work of the team of Job’s and Ive’s is distinguished by the attention that they give to small details to the development of a new product, while other companies focus on the cost of the product. The iMac for example, they transformed the design of the computer by introducing colour, and light. Unlike other companies the Apple design team is small, however they have invested significantly in tools. Some materials that are enabling different designs are plastic, and metal. Apple uses plastic, metal and moulds them together to get a range of functional and formal opportunities that did not exist before.

Who Is Jonathan Ive? http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/06_39/b4002414.htm 3. Describe the importance of Apple's design team. Are other companies trying to compete with Apple by creating their own design teams?

Apple’s design team is very important for the company for many reasons. Jonathan Ive spoke passionately about the team and how they work together to create unique products. This small team has been chosen carefully, they must live up to Job’s high standards. Apple’s design team turned a basic looking computer into a desirable piece that is attractive to everyone. Other companies are trying to compete with Apple by creating their own design teams. However most companies don’t have the focus, the skills, nor the ability to take high risks like Apple. Other companies focus on lowering their cost, while Apple focuses on “perfecting its design game”