3.3.7 Selection of materials and components GapFill

It is important that the correct materials and components are selected when designing products and many criteria are used when making decisions as to what materials are most appropriate. How a material behaves and performs is key and this is known as the material's  formaestheticsfunctionalityavailability. What the material looks like in terms of form, colour and texture is known as  environmental factorsfunctionalitysocial factorsaesthetics. Stock materials must be considered as they are generally cheaper than having materials cut to size and this factor is one of  availabilitystrengthcolourform. The scale of production is also a factor that contributes to the choice of materials, and the  costcoloursizedisposal of raw materials and processing of the materials needs to be considered. Many consumers look for products that carry the  BSIPCBFairtraderecycling logo, which ensures that materials are purchased from ethical sources and suppliers. Designers and manufacturers must also be aware of the beliefs and values of potential users, which come under the heading of  cultural factorssocial factorsethical factorsergonomic factors. Changing trends and fashions, which fall under the heading of  social factorssizesustainablilityweight, have a significant bearing on the selection of materials due to cost, availability and lifespan, making some products longer-lasting than others.