A modular framework for integrating gender-specific requirements into product development

Current engineering design practices often overlook gender-specific needs, leading to usability deficits and safety risks – particularly for women. This paper introduces a modular framework that systematically integrates gender-specific requirements into the entire product development process. Drawing from empirical studies and existing design standards, the framework addresses four core deficits: biased data, inadequate requirement definitions, low awareness of gender sensitivity in engineering and the lack of integration in existing development models. Structured into five modules – ranging from context analysis to implementation – it offers practical tools for capturing physiological and psychosocial gender differences, aligning user requirements with inclusive design solutions and validating outcomes through gender-aware evaluation methods. Designed for compatibility with established frameworks such as VDI 2221 and ISO 9241-210, the framework enables seamless integration into industrial workflows. It supports more equitable, usable and market-relevant products while promoting diversity as a driver of innovation. Future research will focus on empirical validation and digital tool integration to further enhance its industrial applicability.