The discussion in class on modularity led me to think of other ways that modular design is implemented. The essence of modularity is that, as was stated in class, it "improves innovative capacity" through the utilization of coupling and cohesion. This is true when we think of parts used in an assembly line, or parts that are used in a computer. There are, however, other ways that modular design can be useful to people.
IKEA products are a good example of the usefulness of modular design. Their merchandise allows customers to design living solutions that conform to each individual's decorating styles and space considerations. Since many of IKEA's products feature interchangeable parts, consumers can rearrange or add on units as they see fit, or as they can afford them. This leads to unique storage and decorating setups that are custom fitted to the needs of each individual consumer, without having to make each unit individually.
The benefits of this system are the customization that was mentioned in the previous paragraph, as well as a huge cost savings due to not having to special order individual units if you want them custom fitted to your home. Also, because the parts are interchangeable, if the customer decides that they don't like the configuration they can move or change the way it is configured. The pieces can also be moved relatively easily to different rooms in the living space since they are not made of large, heavy pieces.
The biggest complaint that I have in regards to IKEA's designs are that they sometimes seem cold and impersonal. I would like to see a greater variety of design ideas that incorporate different materials (since many of their products seem to be made of plastic), and less boxy furniture. This, however, is just my personal taste.
IKEA's website can be viewed at http://www.ikea.com/us/en/
