What does the term 'design iteration' refer to?

The term 'design iteration' refers specifically to the cyclical refinement process based on feedback. In product design and technology, this approach emphasizes that design is not a one-time event; rather, it is an ongoing process that involves creating prototypes, testing them, and then refining the design based on the feedback received. This iterative process allows designers to continuously improve the product, addressing any issues that arise and incorporating new ideas that could enhance functionality or aesthetics.

This method is crucial because it acknowledges that initial ideas may require modification and enhancement through repeated cycles of testing and feedback. As designers gather insights from users and stakeholders, they refine their solutions, often leading to innovative outcomes that better meet user needs.

The other options, while related to the design process, do not encapsulate the essence of iteration. For example, finalizing a product design suggests a concluding phase rather than an ongoing process. Initial brainstorming focuses on idea generation without the refinement aspect inherent in iterations. Evaluation of competing products does not involve the designer's own iterative improvements but rather a comparison with existing alternatives. Hence, the concept of design iteration stands out distinctly as a fundamental principle in developing effective products through continuous refinement.