What it means to be robust


By Kollin Joines (LinkedIn), Governor at Large, NTEA Generation Next

This article was originally published in the August 2023 issue of Generation Next Edition. 

Oftentimes when we think of the word “robust,” other words of a similar nature come to mind, such as: strong, powerful, sturdy, and rugged. Although these excellent synonyms can be used to easily describe robustness, “robust” has a different nuance in the engineering field. It’s through this filter that I would like to examine the adjective and how the goal of being robust may bring positive impacts to you in your everyday life. 

In engineering, a product design can be considered to be robust only if it possesses these main attributes:

  • Can be efficiently manufactured
  • Can be accurately built
  • Can be consistently built
  • Achieves the desired outcome

Many variables go into designing, testing and building a product. In order to achieve a robust design, the fundamental factors that make up the design must be adjusted and tuned to a point where they interact best, and in the most efficient form. Then the design must be tested, evaluated, and possibly adjusted to achieve the desired outcome. During the design process, the engineer must consider the end goal, for whom the product is designed, what features must be included in the design, and how the product can be efficiently manufactured.

I like to use this concept of robust design in everyday life. 

Think of the product as your life, and think of your schedule as your design. Then think of the variables and features as the tasks and activities that make up your daily or weekly routine. Ask yourself these questions:

  • How do these tasks and routines interact with one another? (For example, does cooking a healthy dinner interfere with your gym time? Does work interfere with spending time with your family?)
  • What tasks should you absolutely prioritize?
  • With 24 hours in a day and seven days in a week, how can you adjust the order and time spent on tasks and activities to achieve the best outcome in the most efficient manner?

Consider your end goal, tailor your week with your priorities in mind, then create a plan and test it. 

At the end of your day or week it is important to evaluate your results, as this is as important as the design process itself.

  • Did you complete everything you wanted to?
    • Is your design efficient?
  • Did your tasks and activities interfere with each other?
    • Is your design accurate?
  • Can you stay on schedule, or are you rushed and overwhelmed?
    • Can you complete this consistently week after week?
  • Do you have a feeling of accomplishment?
    • Did you achieve the desired outcome?

Many times, the original design does not go as planned, and that’s fine! Reevaluate, make adjustments, and fine tune the factors that affect your week until you reach your desired outcome.

Taking the time to develop and test a robust design ensures the success of a product, but the concept of robust design is not to be limited to engineering itself. With this principle in mind, anyone can achieve a life worthy of being considered robust. 

Take a step back and ask yourself: How can you design your life to be more robust?

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