How does the form relate to the function?

Answer 1

The form and function are two aspects of design.

Say how to design a car? The function is people transport. A tall person will like a big car, like an SUV. A shorter person does not mind driving a Honda fit. So the designer has to make sure the form of the car fits the function -- it has to hold a person comfortably and safely.

Say how to design a container (a shampoo bottle, for example)? The function is to hold the fluid (shampoo). But the boss wants the bottle to be held comfortable by a female, so the design has to make sure the bottle is not too big/heavy a cylinder for a female to hold. The boss also wants less shampoo per bottle but not too obvious, so the designer move the bottom one inch up the cylinder to hold less shampoo but may not be noticed. The boss wants hip, so the designer puts Lady Gaga's picture on the label. And so on.

The above examples show form to fit function. But sometimes it is function follows form. One example is replacement parts. The replacement has to fit the footprint of the original. The form of the original is paramount. If it does not fit, it cannot serve as a replacement.

Answer 2

The form of an object is closely related to its function in design. The way something looks and is shaped can often determine how well it can perform its intended purpose efficiently. A well-designed form can enhance the functionality of an object and improve user experience.