The Perfect Thing

1. The first step of the design process is something a third grader is familiar with-brainstorming, deciding what sort of product you want to create. In Apple's case, the designers knew they wanted to develop some form of an already well-known device, an MP3 player. From there, they thought about what flaws they wanted to avoid based on their experiences with the MP3 players. They knew they wanted to create something with greater storage space, pocket-size and something attractive. They thought of weight, battery life and cost. When Fadell was asked to work on the project, he was told to start by basically building a small computer. From there, it's a matter of organization, compromise and practicality.  Once Apple decided what would go on the spinning wheel, if there would be on/off buttons, they had to decide on a name. All of that falls into the larger category of all trial and error, talking about what you like and what you don't like, followed by hours and hours of questioning. Once products are constructed, they must be tested. Before Apple put the iPod on the market, they sent their product out to be tested by the public. After all, keeping your audience in mind is half the battle in designing a product.

2. The factors I would use to evaluate a "perfect thing" would include cost, size, weight, visual appeal, practicality, sustainability, material (durability), long term use (if possible or not), compatibility with surroundings. 

3. The first iPod I owned was the iPod Nano, and the only reason I now have an iPod Touch is because it came for free with my laptop this summer. I've been able to compare and contrast the two and Apple's come a long way in just under a decade. The Nano is definitely small, the screen is about 1/15 of the screen of an iPod touch, but I wouldn't consider that a weakness. In my opinion, the song quality of a Nano is just as good as the iPod touch, which just shows how competent it's been from the start. However, the iTouch is definitely more visually appealing, and Apple's ability to create a product so appealing to the public over and over again is astounding. The ability to upload photos, watch movies and music videos and play games are strengths as well. Unlike a radio, songs won't skip as you walk around, hit potholes while in the car or even fall down the stairs. I feel like its weaknesses are limited; it scratches easily, but that's why Apple sells protective coverings. Battery life is often an issue, especially with smaller iPods like the nano.