7.10 Matrix Chart

A Matrix Chart can be created to help decision making and also to clarify concepts after a brainstorming session. It is very similar to a Morphological chart, however more casual in its structure. It can also be used as a starting point for creating ideas. Several Matrices may be used together to create a plan for different design directions. The design of a chair for an office could be the initial brief. For this a general matrix could be generated:

Ideas	Minimalist	Standard	Hi-tech	Additional function
Single support	X	X	X
Double Support	X	X	X
Tripod		X	X
Four Legs		X	X
Levitation		X	X	X
Suspended from above	X	X
Solid Base	X	X	X	X
Back support	X	X	X	X
Balance related posture	X	X
Wheels			X	X
Movement			X	X
Adjustment			X	X
Swivel			X	X
Automation				X

Thirty four Design directions are outlined so far for each of these a Matrix chart containing Materials or Processes could be used

Options	Woods Natural and manufactured	Metals (Ferrous and non ferrous Alloys)	Glass	Polymers(Thermoplastics, Thermosets and natural)
Injection Moulding		X*		X
Compression Moulding				X
Extrusion		X		X
Forming Processes Vacuum:Superplastic:Draped:Jigs	X	X	X	X
Casting		X
Rotational Moulding				X
Blow Moulding				X
Cut and Machined	X	X	X	X

* Similar process used for Light Non ferrous alloys

This method could continue for specifics such as fixing and joining methods or surface finish.