What is one of the steps of design for manufacturing that involves assessment of the part?

The step of design for manufacturing that involves assessment of the part is testing. This phase is crucial because it allows for the evaluation of how well a design meets its intended performance criteria, functionality, and manufacturability. During testing, various methods can be utilized to assess the part's strength, durability, and overall performance under different conditions.

By conducting thorough testing, designers and engineers can identify potential issues and make necessary adjustments before full-scale production begins. This can lead to enhancements in design that can improve product quality, reduce production costs, and increase the efficiency of the manufacturing process.

In contrast, prototyping focuses on creating a physical representation of the design to evaluate its form and functionality without the depth of performance assessment involved in testing. Sourcing materials relates to selecting appropriate raw materials needed for the manufacturing process, and coding specifications involves detailing the requirements and guidelines for production but does not directly engage with the assessment of the part in the same manner as testing does.