The Industrial Design program at focuses on a new model of interdisciplinary product development called integrated innovation. The primary goal of integrated innovation is to produce design solutions that 1) meet user needs in unexpected ways, 2) create value in the marketplace, and 3) improve society and the environment. This unique focus has led the program to form strong academic partnerships with visual communication/graphic design and the schools of engineering and business at ASU. Students graduating with this experience can expect to possess an acute understanding of the potential that industrial design brings to the social, commercial, and environmental challenges facing the twenty-first century. To support integrated innovation, the Industrial Design program teaches both traditional and cutting-edge design skills and knowledge, including a strong visual acumen; technological aptitude; a practical knowledge of manufacturing, sustainability, and ergonomics; critical comprehension of design history; and a clear understanding of how to identify, evaluate, and respond to the physical and psychological needs of users. By way of studio projects, students learn to research problems and opportunities; visualize and communicate ideas; and refine their skills in freehand sketching, computer-aided design, and model simulation. Typical design projects (some of which are conducted with external partners) feature product planning and user experience along with exercises dealing with the design of electronic devices, housewares, sports equipment, and packaging. Focus is placed on the role of the industrial designer as a member of a team. Third-year students perform internships in either a corporation or a consulting firm. The program also has very close ties with the Industrial Designers Society of America.