Industrial designers mostly work at the interface between people and technology. This requires understanding of visual and aesthetic issues, of technology and its applications, of ergonomics and user requirements, of manufacturing materials and methods and their impact on the environment, of professional practice and management and cultural and ethical issues. The ability to communicate ideas, and designs with clients and people in manufacturing industries is very important so industrial designers must have a strong ability to communicate using sketches, drawings, renderings, models and prototypes, computer aided drafting and modelling, and written reports and instructions, and verbal presentations. Commercial interior designers work on diverse projects that may include office fitout, shop interiors, hotels, libraries, hospitals and schools. Projects may be refurbishing old buildings or working with architects on new buildings.
Designers work in a similar way to architects.
They begin a project by defining the clients' requirements and budget, then researching the special requirements of the project. The designer then develops alternative design solutions to which the client responds. The final proposal, which includes costs, is then prepared for approval. Interior designers may be involved in designing simple structural alterations and additions to existing buildings, requiring knowledge of building construction, building regulations and building law. Increasingly, interior designers need to have lateral thinking skills and to be attuned to the changing needs of society.