Routine design aims at “solving familiar problems” and designing solutions by using the knowledge base from previous projects and experiences. For example, an accounting (PAYROLL) system would most likely INVOLVE routine design; as such systems have been in PRODUCTION for a long time and are well understood. Routine design INVOLVES a lot of re-use and occurs much more frequently than an innovative design that requires original thinking. Innovative design is opposite of routine design, and aims at solving problems that do not have any previous knowledge base. Innovative design aims at solving original and unique problems, such as controlling an unmanned helicopter through a remote control center.

Routine design aims at “solving familiar problems” and designing solutions by using the knowledge base from previous projects and experiences. For example, an accounting (payroll) system would most likely involve routine design; as such systems have been in production for a long time and are well understood. Routine design involves a lot of re-use and occurs much more frequently than an innovative design that requires original thinking. Innovative design is opposite of routine design, and aims at solving problems that do not have any previous knowledge base. Innovative design aims at solving original and unique problems, such as controlling an unmanned helicopter through a remote control center.