What four criteria are typically considered in material selection for a design brief?

• A. Cost, Strength, Weight, Durability.
• B. Cost, Weight, Availability, Aesthetics.
• C. Corrosion resistance, Heat resistance, Availability, Manufacturability.
• D. Environmental impact, Aesthetics, Color, Brand.

Answer: (A)

When choosing materials for a design brief, you look for a balance between how the material performs and how much it costs over the product’s life. The four criteria that best capture this balance are cost, strength, weight, and durability. Cost affects both manufacturing and the final price, so a material must be affordable enough to be practical. Strength is about the material's ability to carry loads without failing, which is essential for safety and function. Weight influences performance in terms of energy use, handling, and efficiency, especially in transport or aerospace applications. Durability covers how well the material resists wear, corrosion, fatigue, and environmental attack over time, which affects maintenance and lifespan. While other factors like aesthetics, availability, or environmental impact can matter in some contexts, these four are the most universally applicable core criteria for material selection in a design brief.