Architecture of a product embodies many elements. The actual form of the product begins during architecture. It is not uncommon that a large part of this would be known during the earlier project planning while defining the product requirements and risks. Often the technology itself defines much of the architecture. An important element of the architecture phase is the industrial design. The industrial design effort is a cross between engineering and aesthetic appearance while keeping in mind the product requirements. A strong focus is applied toward connecting the product and the user considering usability, shape, finish, visual appearance, and human interfaces. With the embodiment of the architecture, the system is often broken into natural design activities along discipline specific boundaries of mechanical, electrical and software. This process creates interfaces between these boundaries and these interfaces are defined as a basis for work going forward.

Often the requirements and risks are categorized into the various disciplines that will be applied. Those requirements that are primarily focused on electrical safety are assigned to electrical engineering. Similarly mechanical and software assignments are made. It is not uncommon for a specific requirement or risks to have assignment into more than one discipline.