Brief Development Explanatory Paper
Introduction
The purpose of this explanatory paper is to clarify and define what a brief is and how it is developed as part of technological practice. It presents the component descriptor, the key ideas underpinning it, and illustrative examples of these from technology and technology education.
Component descriptor
Brief development is a dynamic process that reflects the complex interactions within ongoing technological practice. A brief is developed to clearly describe a desired outcome that would meet a need or realise an opportunity, and takes into account the physical and social environment. It is comprised of a conceptual statement that communicates what is to be done and why it should be done.
It also includes specifications that define the requirements of a technological outcome in terms of its physical and functional nature. The specifications provide guidance for ongoing evaluation during the development of an outcome, as well as serving as an evaluative tool against which the final outcome can be justified as fit for purpose. Brief Development can be thought of as the defining practices of technological practice.
