Which phase directly follows prototype testing in the engineering design process?

The phase that directly follows prototype testing in the engineering design process is redesign. After testing a prototype, engineers gather data and insights about its performance, functionality, and any issues that arise. This feedback indicates what improvements or modifications are needed to enhance the design.

In this context, redesign is the critical step where engineers take the findings from the prototype testing—such as functional inadequacies, user experience challenges, or material limitations—and address them by altering the design. This iterative process allows for refining the product to better meet the requirements and expectations set out in the earlier phases of the engineering design process.

Other phases mentioned, such as research or problem definition, are typically conducted before prototype testing occurs. Feedback collection, while closely related, is often an activity that happens concurrently during prototype testing, rather than being a standalone phase that follows it. Thus, redesign is the logical next step following the insights gained from prototype testing.