What is a key characteristic of modular design?

A key characteristic of modular design is that components can be easily modified or replaced. This design approach emphasizes creating individual components or modules that can be combined in various ways to form different configurations or products. The modular nature facilitates upgrades, repairs, or alterations without the need for redesigning the entire system, making it highly adaptable and efficient in production and maintenance.

The ability to swap out or modify individual components encourages innovation and customization, allowing for quick responses to market demands and user preferences. This flexibility is beneficial for manufacturers, as it can lead to reduced costs and faster production times, while also providing customers with tailored solutions.

In contrast, features like strictly manual assembly, reliance on non-interchangeable parts, and a reduction in design flexibility are contrary to the principles of modular design. These characteristics would limit the functional benefits and efficiencies that modularity offers, making them unsuitable for this concept.