Why are separate evaluation matrices created for separate functional subunits of a design?

• A. PICK THE BEST SUBUNITS BECAUSE WE CAN COMBINE THEM
• B. RANDOMIZE DECISIONS
• C. AVOID TRADE-OFFS
• D. INCREASE COMPLEXITY

Answer: (A)

Separating evaluation across functional subunits uses a modular design approach. By giving each function its own matrix, you compare options against criteria that matter specifically for that function. This makes it clear which subunits perform best for their intended role, so you can mix and match the top performers when assembling the full system.

This method helps manage complexity by evaluating in parallel and then integrating the best subunits, rather than trying to optimize a single global solution. It also respects that different functions impose different trade-offs, so separate evaluations reveal which subunits fit together best in the final design. Randomizing decisions or insisting that trade-offs disappear would undermine deliberate selection, and adding unnecessary complexity isn’t the goal of modular evaluation.