The pros and cons of modular design

When looking at modular design, the question is to what extent everyone understands the term. To talk about its advantages and disadvantages, it is good to first look at what modular design actually is. Modular design is often applied when the process consists of several steps or modules. Thus, by splitting the entire process into modules, you can ensure that you develop the modules separately and make them fit together. A great example of how this works in practice can be found from LGem, who have designed algae production this way. Check out LGem’s website for more information.

Advantages of modular design

If you work with different modules instead of a total solution, you are often cheaper. By clearly defining the modules, for the part you want to design, you can look for someone with the knowledge specific to that module. There is also the advantage that the modules can perhaps be used elsewhere without having to end up with the same end product. A situation that ensures that the development costs can thus be recouped earlier or elsewhere. Increasingly, therefore, this way of designing is chosen, which in practice is therefore cost-saving.

Disadvantages of modular design

If you are working on part of the overall process, you can sometimes lose sight of what it is all about and what it is about. That risk also exists with modular design. You are so occupied with a small part of the total process that it is difficult to keep seeing the right proportions. This drawback is easily solved by giving someone overall responsibility over the different modules. So by checking that the outcome of the module is actually what the next module needs to continue working with, you prevent the overall modules from deviating.

Where do you use modular design?

There are a number of sectors whose main focus is on innovation and development. Often, they know very well the goal they want to achieve and can also name the different modules. But making the link between the modules is not something that is always easy. By describing the modules and working towards the initial value of the next module, you can simplify the process. At LGem, they know how to shape the applications of modular design excellently. Because of this, it may make sense to look at exactly what they offer and how this may be important to you. You can read more about LGem here.