Design criteria are the specific guidelines and requirements that a project must meet to be considered successful. These criteria can include factors such as functionality, aesthetics, safety, and cost. They help designers and engineers focus their efforts and ensure that the final product meets the needs of users and stakeholders. Establishing clear design criteria is essential in various fields, including architecture, product development, and software engineering. For example, in architecture, criteria might involve building codes and environmental impact, while in software engineering, usability and performance standards are crucial. These criteria serve as a foundation for evaluating and refining designs throughout the development process.