Why would you use product outlines in design?

Using product outlines in design is an effective strategy for creating geometry that conveys the overall size and shape of an assembly. Product outlines serve as a foundational reference framework that guides designers in visualizing and conceptualizing the dimensions and spatial relationships of various components within an assembly. This initial step is crucial in the design process, as it helps establish the scale and proportions before moving on to more detailed features and specifications.

In contrast, while detailed features, specifications, and rendering quality are essential aspects of the design process, they typically come into play after the foundational geometry has been established. Detailed features (adding complexity) and finalizing specifications are processes that occur after you have a clear understanding of the assembly's overall outline. Similarly, improving rendering quality pertains to visual presentation rather than the basic geometric layout. Hence, product outlines primarily serve to lay down the necessary groundwork for more intricate design work that follows.